Race, Ethnicity, Sex, Gender and Sexuality
In this chapter, it talks about how race, ethnicity, sex, gender, and sexuality all affect inequality in society. Race is the idea that people can be grouped based on physical traits like skin color or facial features, but scientists and sociologists say these differences don’t have a real biological meaning. Instead, race is a social construction, which means it’s something society created and gave meaning to, not something that actually defines who people are. Ethnicity is more about shared culture, history, and traditions that make groups unique, like language or social customs/norms. The chapter also explains it through the three main sociological perspectives. Functionalism sees inequality as dysfunctional because it stops society from reaching its full potential. Conflict theory says inequality happens because groups fight over power and resources, and the dominant group tries to stay in control. Symbolic interactionism focuses on how labels and meanings connected to race, gender, and sexuality are learned through daily interactions with each other. Altogether, these perspectives help explain how discrimination can still occur today and how society can combat it to be unified again.
Overall, the 2024 data from the FBI Hate Crime Data Explorer shows that hate crimes remain a major issue in the United States, with 11,679 total incidents reported nationwide. Of these, about 53% were motivated by race, ethnicity, or ancestry, 23–25% by religion, and around 17% by sexual orientation. Smaller portions involved gender identity (4%), disability (1%), and gender (1%). In Florida, there were 194 hate crime incidents reported in 2024, showing that bias-motivated crimes affect communities across the state as well as the nation. Looking specifically at anti-LGBTQ hate crimes, about 2,413 incidents were reported nationwide. Most of these involved intimidation (around 38%), property damage or vandalism (29%), and simple assault (26%). These crimes most often occurred in public spaces, homes, and schools, and data showed that about 52% of known offenders were White while the majority of victims were individual people, not organizations. This information is crucial for understanding where and how hate crimes happen so that communities can take action. Law enforcement can use these statistics to focus training and prevention in areas with higher numbers of incidents. Schools and local organizations can use the data to promote tolerance and create safer spaces, especially for groups most often targeted, like racial minorities and LGBTQ individuals. Policymakers can also rely on these findings to strengthen hate crime laws, support victims, and encourage better reporting systems. By using this data to guide education, prevention, and policy, society can work toward reducing hate crimes and creating a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone.
Space Coast Pride is a nonprofit based in Brevard County, Florida, whose mission is to foster a sense of community among LGBTQIA+ residents and to bridge the divide with our straight families, friends, neighbors and organizations. They welcome participation of all, regardless of age, creed, gender identification, HIV status, national origin, race, religion, sexual origin or ability. They serve the LGBTQ+ community in the local area by organizing the annual Pride Festival & Parade, offering year-round support and sponsorship for nonprofits that serve LGBTQ+ individuals, and providing advocacy and educational efforts. For example, their event in 2023 drew over 23,000 attendees with more than 140 vendor booths and 50+ parade groups. Their goals include building visibility, support, and unity for LGBTQ+ people, promoting inclusive community engagement, and encouraging equality in the region.
References:
Race, Ethnicity, Sex, Gender and Sexuality.pdf: 202540-SYG-2010-21Z-40363-Social Problems
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