Sexual and Gender Diversity as Nature's Design
This week, in celebration of Pride Month, we want to offer you an article showing how natural is gender and sexual diversity as deeply. The end of the newsletter includes resources and a link to the longer article.
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Humans have always looked to the natural world to understand what behaviors and relationships are "natural" for our own species. From ancient philosophers to modern scientists, we've consistently turned to animal behavior as a mirror for human society, seeking validation for our social structures, family arrangements, and expressions of love.
Yet for too long, our observations of the non-human world have been filtered through our own cultural assumptions about gender roles and sexuality—assumptions that have led us to overlook, dismiss, or misinterpret the extraordinary diversity of intimate relationships that surround us. Accusations of gender and sexual diversity as "unnatural" and "weird" and "not what God intended" abound, haunting people - and social institutions - their whole lives.
But when we remove these blinders and observe nature with fresh eyes, we discover an important truth: sexual and gender fluidity isn't an aberration or modern invention, but rather a fundamental feature of life itself.
Life is fluid.
Life is diverse.
This article draws primarily from two sources that invite deeper exploration. The first is Dr. Olivia Judson's fabulous book, "Dr. Tatiana's Sex Advice to All Creation: The Definitive Guide to the Evolutionary Biology of Sex" (Metropolitan Books, 2002), an international bestseller that uses humor and rigorous science to reveal the extraordinary sexual diversity of the animal kingdom. Part of what we love about this book is the extent to which it de-centers human experiences, which is so critical when we think about nature - especially for those of us looking to nurture our regenerative worldview. The second is the acclaimed podcast, "A Field Guide to Gay Animals" by hosts Owen Ever and Laine Kaplan-Levenson, which was selected as an Official Selection of the 2024 Tribeca Audio Festival. Both offer a range of examples, experts, and delightful re-interpretations about many creatures - of which we humans are but one species.
We strongly encourage readers to explore both sources directly—Dr. Judson's book offers an well-researched and witty journey through animal sexuality, while the podcast provides more in-depth conversations with leading researchers and moving stories of both animal and human acceptance.
Common resources for families include:
PFLAG - The nation's first and largest organization for LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies, with local chapters nationwide
The Trevor Project - Crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth, including 24/7 crisis support
Family Acceptance Project - Research-based resources on family acceptance and its impact on LGBTQ+ health
For Educators and Community Leaders in Hostile Environments
Schools and community organizations can create environments where all young people feel safe, much like the animal sanctuaries that allow creatures to express their natural behaviors freely. Recent research shows that even small gestures of inclusion can have significant impact.
Current crisis-responsive resources include:
GLSEN - Provides legal guidance and practical support for educators navigating restrictive legislation
GSA Network - Supporting student-led clubs with strategies that work within current legal constraints
ACLU Legislative Tracker - Real-time tracking of anti-LGBTQ legislation by state
For Rural Communities: What's Actually Working
Rural LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges, including isolation and limited access to affirming resources. However, grassroots organizing in rural areas is showing measurable success, even in conservative environments. Research demonstrates that LGBTQ+ grassroots activism builds resilience through "cyclical relationships" between outness, activism, and community strength.
Proven rural strategies include:
Start Small: Community development experts recommend beginning with simple visibility measures: "Put a tiny little rainbow sticker on the window of your organization's office. Even if it's in the back window, someone is going to walk through and see it."
Local Policy Advocacy: Rural communities are successfully lobbying local elected officials to enact anti-discrimination measures and conducting cultural inclusivity trainings
Rural Pride Events: The Polk Pride Festival in rural Florida (Polk County) attracts over 6,000 people annually, demonstrating that rural pride events can thrive even in conservative areas
Rural-specific resources:
National Center for Lesbian Rights Rural Pride Campaign - Hosts day-long summits in rural communities to identify local needs and solutions
Movement Advancement Project Rural Resources - Comprehensive research and community tools specifically for rural areas
For Faith Communities
Many people find that understanding the natural diversity of creation deepens their faith and commitment to loving all people. Progressive religious organizations offer resources for reconciling faith and LGBTQ+ affirmation, especially crucial during times of increased hostility.
A reminder of Crisis Support and Mental Health
Given the current legislative climate, crisis support has become even more critical. LGBTQ+ youth face higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, often due to rejection and discrimination. However, research consistently shows that community support dramatically improves mental health outcomes.
Diversity is natural. And nature is beautiful.
The natural world teaches us that diversity strengthens ecosystems and communities. When we support all members of our human family—including LGBTQ+ individuals—we create more resilient, compassionate communities for everyone, in all times including our own.
Article:
Our Queer Kin-dom: Science Keeps Finding That Sexual Diversity Is Nature’s Original Design
by Sara Jolena Wolcott