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Data has never mattered more. Our lives are increasingly shaped by it and how it is defined, collected and used. But who counts in the collection, analysis and application of data?
This important book is the first to look at queer data - defined as data relating to gender, sex, sexual orientation and trans identity/history. The author shows us how current data practices reflect an incomplete account of LGBTQ lives and helps us understand how data biases are used to delegitimise the everyday experiences of queer people.
Guyan demonstrates why it is important to understand, collect and analyse queer data, the benefits and challenges involved in doing so, and how we might better use queer data in our work. Arming us with the tools for action, this book shows how greater knowledge about queer identities is instrumental in informing decisions about resource allocation, changes to legislation, access to services, representation and visibility.
List of contents
1. Introduction
PART ONE - COLLECTING QUEER DATA
2. A history of queer data collection
3. Queer data in the Equality Act
4. Queer collection methods
5. Censuses
6. International approaches to queer data collection
SECTION TWO - ANALYSING QUEER DATA
7. Making sense of queer data
8. Intersectional analysis
SECTION THREE - USING QUEER DATA
9. Maintenance of the status quo
10. Your place to speak
11. For political action
12. Conclusion
About the author
Kevin Guyan is a researcher whose work explores the intersection of data and identity, particularly as it relates to LGBTQ people in the UK. He is a Chancellor's Fellow at the University of Edinburgh, and previously worked for a higher education organization that focuses on equality, diversity and inclusion among staff and students in universities and colleges.
Summary
Data has never mattered more. Our lives are increasingly shaped by it and how it is defined, collected and used. But who counts in the collection, analysis and application of data?
This important book is the first to look at queer data – defined as data relating to gender, sex, sexual orientation and trans identity/history. The author shows us how current data practices reflect an incomplete account of LGBTQ lives and helps us understand how data biases are used to delegitimise the everyday experiences of queer people.
Guyan demonstrates why it is important to understand, collect and analyse queer data, the benefits and challenges involved in doing so, and how we might better use queer data in our work. Arming us with the tools for action, this book shows how greater knowledge about queer identities is instrumental in informing decisions about resource allocation, changes to legislation, access to services, representation and visibility.
Foreword
This important book is the first to look at queer data (defined as data relating to sex, gender, trans identity/ history and sexual orientation), explaining in an engaging and accessible style why it’s important to understand, collect and analyse such data, and the benefits and challenges involved in doing so.
Additional text
This book undeniably deserves a place on your shelf and is a ‘must have’ for anyone in the academic field.
