Toward depathologizing queerness: An analysis of queer oppression in clinical genetics

Abstract

Critically examining the way that the field of clinical genetics has impacted queer communities offers the field an opportunity to strengthen our commitment to inclusive high‐quality care to all patients, families, and communities. This article reviews the origins of clinical genetics and genetic counseling in the eugenics movement and how this ontology promoted harmful medical practices grounded in assumptions of what is “normal.” We critically examine existing clinical genetics practices and how commonly used binary frameworks for gender, sex, and sexuality perpetuate heteronormative, cisnormative, and bioessentialist assumptions. In order to move toward queer inclusivity, the genetic counseling field must first take accountability for past injustices. Restorative justice and trauma‐informed approaches offer a way to engage with the queer community and to begin to rectify the history of medical harm. Through our analysis, we advocate for expanding efforts to depathologize queerness, promote bodily autonomy, and provide equitable healthcare for the queer community.