Patriarchy is a social structure or system of community, society and government in which (usually straight) men’s and boys’ power is upheld as superior to and often exclusive of the power of women and girls and queer persons. Patriarchy refers to the authoritative control of the male-figure (as described in Masculinity) over the family and kin groups, as well as the nation-state, military, and organized religion. Gender based violence, laws/social norms preventing women’s equal participation and leadership, and narrow norms of masculinity are all instruments of patriarchal control. Patriarchy can be supported and reinforced by persons of all genders.