Sexuality and gender: change through reflection and action

Abstract

Gender and sexuality inequalities lie at the root of poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH). An India-based non-governmental organization (NGO) implemented a field-based methodology to integrate gender and sexuality into existing SRH projects in two states. Personal and organizational change occurred through critical analysis and experiential exercises which normalized topics on sexuality for program staff and communities. Staff learned how biases prevented them from engaging with communities. Community women came to understand sexual pleasure as an important aspect of strengthening the family and community. Mapping women's mobility revealed the link between sexuality, mobility and family honour. Gender myths, portraying men as oppressors, made explicit the narrow and biased picture of men that perpetuates through social norms maintained by staff and not only by communities in which they work. Methods improved social relations and prompted both behaviour and social changes at the community level.

Keywords:

• sexuality
• gender
• action research
• masculinity
• reproductive health

Notes

Notes

1. The local health volunteer or Anganwadi worker provides nutritional and health services and counselling to pregnant, lactating women and adolescent girls which is supported by the government of India. She receives an honorarium for her services at the Anganwadi Centre.

2. Authors use ‘homosexual’ in this article, instead of ‘gay’, because groups in India used the term ‘homosexual’ alternatively with ‘men who have sex with men’ or ‘MSM’. It refers to behaviour rather than identity. Authors felt the choice of language – often based on class and exposure to western vernacular – was less important than how it is used.

3. Many women did not know their age. All women were mothers and some were mothers in law.