Occupational apartheid and human rights: Narratives of Chilean same-sex couples who want to be parents

Abstract

ABSTRACT Theoretical and political background: Human rights can help value human diversity as a natural condition of all societies. In some places, however, not everybody can exercise their rights. Purpose: This work aims to understand the restrictions experienced by same-sex couples who wish to engage in parenthood. Method: The study presents the situation of two same-sex couples who have experienced restrictions to becoming parents in Chile. The methodology used to present their experiences is a biographical narrative combined with a life story approach. Findings: The occupational transition towards motherhood/fatherhood for same-sex couples is restricted due to discrimination and exclusion resulting from current political and sociocultural conditions prevailing in Chile. Those who participated in the study described their experience as restricted because of gender stereotypes associated with raising children and heteronormative occupations. One aspect of the restrictions imposed on the parenthood of same-sex couples is expressed as an occupational apartheid which already impacts LGTBI persons in Chile. Discussion: These human rights violations have an impact on occupational identity and everyday life, preventing same-sex couples from engaging in meaningful life projects. Conclusion: This work is a contribution to occupational science as it describes the occupational apartheid experienced by same-sex couples trying to start a family in Chile.