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Trans People in the Workplace: Possibilities for Subverting Heteronormativity

Author

Listed:
  • David Watson

    (University of East Anglia, UK)

  • Angelo Benozzo

    (University of Valle d’Aosta, Italy)

  • Roberta Fida

    (University of East Anglia, UK)

Abstract

This article explores possible subversions of heteronormativity through transgender performativity in the workplace. Drawing on insights from Judith Butler we focus on how employees construct (un)intelligible subject positions that can create ‘moments’ of subversion, which go against the disciplinary, powerful and normative gender binary. We explore this possibility through an analysis of qualitative material generated through encounters with 11 Italian trans workers. Our analysis shows that subversion manifests in diverse ways according to how individual performativities combine with organisational context. Within this diversity we highlight three moments of subversion: subversion through intrigue; subversion through incongruence; and subversion through betrayal. We argue that where transgender identity contrasts strongly with gender norms, subversion is most intense. The subversion of strongly heteronormative working contexts is difficult as moments of subversion are unpredictable, varied and can come at personal cost, but are necessary in order to accommodate different gender identities.

Suggested Citation

  • David Watson & Angelo Benozzo & Roberta Fida, 2024. "Trans People in the Workplace: Possibilities for Subverting Heteronormativity," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 38(3), pages 744-765, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:38:y:2024:i:3:p:744-765
    DOI: 10.1177/09500170231155059
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Harding, Nancy & Ford, Jackie & Gough, Brendan, 2010. "Accounting for ourselves: Are academics exploited workers?," CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES ON ACCOUNTING, Elsevier, vol. 21(2), pages 159-168.
    2. Alison Pullen & Torkild Thanem & Melissa Tyler & Louise Wallenberg & Sara Louise Muhr & Katie Rose Sullivan & Craig Rich, 2016. "Situated Transgressiveness: Exploring One Transwoman's Lived Experiences across Three Situated Contexts," Gender, Work and Organization, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 23(1), pages 52-70, January.
    3. Angelo Benozzo & Maria Chiara Pizzorno & Huw Bell & Mirka Koro-Ljungberg, 2015. "Coming Out, But Into What? Problematizing Discursive Variations of Revealing the Gay Self in the Workplace," Gender, Work and Organization, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 22(3), pages 292-306, May.
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