About
Dr. Sim Butler’s work employs critical cultural and rhetorical approaches to examine issues affecting transgender and gender diverse (TGD) communities, particularly within the contexts of health communication and social justice. His research interrogates how dominant narratives shape public understanding of TGD lives, often reinforcing systems of exclusion and inequity.
By deconstructing hegemonic discourses in medical practices and health communication, Butler’s work illuminates how institutions can perpetuate harm even while professing care. His research contributes to a more ethical, inclusive approach to health and wellbeing.
Impact Beyond the University
Butler’s commitment to community-based participatory research ensures that the voices of TGD individuals are centered, not studied from a distance. He collaborates directly with communities to identify challenges, design research and translate findings into action that improves access to care and social inclusion.
His work on media representation provides critical tools for journalists, educators, and advocates striving to portray TGD individuals with accuracy, dignity and complexity. Through public advocacy, Butler helps reshape how gender diversity is discussed across institutions and in everyday culture.
A Passion for Teaching and Advocacy
In the classroom, Butler encourages students to critically engage with questions of identity, power, and communication. He challenges them to consider how messages about gender, health, and belonging are constructed and how they can be changed.
His teaching fosters empathy, critical awareness, and the courage to question taken-for-granted norms. Whether mentoring future scholars or working alongside community organizations, Butler exemplifies how communication research can advance equity, inclusion and transformative social change.