ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the way hierarchies of identity about perceived attractiveness, sex (as an act), and gender identity all reduce people down to a one-dimensional version of who they are. These essentialized constructions are used to rank identities in ways that return power to the powerful. The implication of sexual hierarchies includes the way organizations are staffed and developed, as well as activist burnout. I argue that the way norms are placed upon LGBTQ identities are designed to benefit institutional heterosexuality. This includes the structure of lobbying, agenda-setting, and policy areas, which prioritize mainstream heteronormative issues.
