"Gender inequality is the social phenomenon in which people are not treated equally on the basis of gender. This inequality can be caused by gender discrimination or sexism."
The ways that gender influences the distribution and exercise of power in social relationships, institutions, and society as a whole.
Gender identity: Understanding one's own gender identity (e.g., male, female, non-binary) and how it shapes individual experiences of power.
Sexism: Systematic beliefs, attitudes, and actions that privilege one gender over another.
Intersectionality: Recognizing the multidimensionality of identity and the ways that various aspects of identity (e.g., race, sexuality, class) interact to shape unique experiences of power and privilege.
Gender socialization: The process by which individuals learn the socially constructed behaviors and expectations associated with gender through family, media, education, and other social institutions.
Gender stereotypes: Preconceived notions and expectations about what characteristics and behaviors are associated with different genders.
Patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power and supremacy in decision-making, resulting in gender inequality and oppression.
Feminism: A range of movements and ideologies aimed at ending gender-based oppression and achieving gender equality.
Masculinity and femininity: Cultural norms and expectations associated with how men and women should behave, dress, and act.
Gendered language: The way language can perpetuate gender stereotypes or reinforce gender equality.
Gender-based violence: Physical, sexual, psychological, and economic harm perpetuated against individuals based on their gender.
Intersectionality of gender and sexuality: Understanding how gender and sexuality intersect to shape unique experiences of power and oppression.
Gender and politics: The role of gender in political systems, such as representation, leadership, and policy-making.
Workplace power dynamics: Understanding the gendered power dynamics that exist in the workplace, including pay gaps, leadership positions, and occupational segregation.
Media and gender: Understanding how media representations of gender can impact perceptions of gender and contribute to gender-based oppression.
Gender and education: The ways in which gender influences access to education, curriculum, and opportunities for academic and career advancement.
Patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power and authority.
Matriarchy: A social system in which women hold primary power and authority.
Heteronormativity: The assumption that heterosexuality is the default or "normal" sexual orientation, and the marginalization of non-heterosexual individuals and experiences.
Homophobia: The fear or hatred of non-heterosexual individuals and experiences.
Transphobia: The fear or hatred of individuals whose gender identity does not conform to the gender they were assigned at birth.
Gender stereotypes: Widely-held beliefs about the roles, behaviors, and traits that are expected of people based on their gender.
Sexism: Prejudice or discrimination based on a person's gender, typically against women.
Misogyny: The hatred or dislike of, or ingrained prejudice against, women or feminism.
Toxic masculinity: A cultural ideal of manhood that advocates for behavior which is widely regarded as harmful and/or oppressive toward women, other men, and non-binary individuals, such as dominance, aggression, and emotional suppression.
Femininity as weakness: The stereotype that femininity is inherently weaker, less competent, or less valuable than masculinity.
Intersectionality: The recognition that different forms of oppression and privilege (e.g. based on race, class, gender, sexuality, etc.) intersect and combine in complex ways.
Tokenism: The superficial inclusion of individuals or groups who are otherwise excluded from power, without giving them meaningful influence or recognition.
Hegemonic masculinity: A term to describe a dominant, idealized form of masculinity that is centered around power and control over both women and other men.
Androgyny: The blending of traditionally masculine and feminine traits, identities, or expressions.
Genderqueer/non-binary: Someone who identifies as neither exclusively male nor female, or who do not identify as either gender.
Intersectional feminism: A feminist approach that recognizes the ways in which different identities and forms of oppression intersect and influence each other, and that seeks to center those who are most marginalized.
Trans-inclusive feminism: A feminist approach that recognizes and supports the rights of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.
"The treatment [inequality] may arise from distinctions regarding biology, psychology, or cultural norms prevalent in the society."
"Some of these distinctions are empirically grounded, while others appear to be social constructs."
"While current policies around the world cause inequality among individuals, it is women who are most affected."
"Gender inequality weakens women in many areas such as health, education, and business life."
"Studies show the different experiences of genders across many domains including education, life expectancy, personality, interests, family life, careers, and political affiliation."
"Gender inequality is experienced differently across different cultures."
"Gender inequality... also affects non-binary people."