Showing affection in public safely and comfortably, without fear of harassment or violence
Openly talking about one’s partner and relationships to others without considering the consequences
Benefiting from societal “normalcy”: the assumption that heterosexual individuals and relationships are valid, healthy and non-deviant
Assuming that all people and relationships are heterosexual, unless otherwise known
Not facing rejection from one’s family and friends because of one’s sexual orientation or gender identity
Easily accessing positive role models and media images for one’s gender identity and sexual orientation
Not being asked to speak on behalf of all heterosexuals
Using gender specific pronouns when referring to one’s spouse or partner without discomfort or fear of reprisal
Having automatic recognition of one’s spouse as next-of-kin in emergencies
Easily selecting print or viewing materials in which heterosexuality is the predominantly reflected orientation
Having families similar to one’s own represented in children’s literature
Raising children without fear that they will be rejected or harassed by peers because of their parents’ sexual orientation or gender identities
Receiving support and validation from a religious community
Not risking being denied employment, housing or other services because of one’s sexual orientation or gender identity
Not being seen as needing therapy to “cure” one’s sexual orientation or gender expression
Marrying