LGBTQ+ History Month is not only a time to reflect on the milestones and struggles of the community but also a great time to consider the unique perspectives and experiences that shape queer individuals' lives.
As a queer person myself, in this post, I would like to explore the things that queer people find obvious but may not be as readily apparent to those outside the community.
- The Concept of «Chosen Family»
The concept of chosen family and the understanding that familial bonds are not solely determined by blood is extremely natural in the queer community. In a world where coming out can lead to rejection or even danger, queer individuals often build close-knit networks of friends who can provide love, advice, support and acceptance. These chosen families play a crucial role in the lives of queer people, offering a sense of belonging that may not be found within biological families or mainstream society.
- Navigating Gender
Gender is often viewed as a binary concept in our heteronormative society, with expectations placed on individuals to conform to strict gender roles based on their assigned sex at birth. Queer people recognise that gender is a spectrum and challenge these norms by embracing and expressing their true genders. This process of discovering your gender identity can be difficult for straight individuals to comprehend, especially if they've never questioned their own gender identity before.
- The Importance of Queer Safe Spaces
Queer safe spaces are vital for queer individuals, despite misconceptions suggesting they result in segregation. Dedicated queer spaces allow our community to come together without fear or judgment and allow us to authentically be ourselves, free from societal pressures and even threats of violence. Unfortunately, the harsh reality is that prejudice and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community persist, with stories of brutal attacks and relentless bullying underscoring the need for refuge and safe spaces. Until our society evolves to a point of universal acceptance, these spaces remain not only relevant but vital, serving as beacons of hope in a world too often hostile to those perceived as different.
- Visibility, Representation and Pride
Queer people are very aware of the importance of realistic and diverse representation that reflects the wide spectrum of queer experiences. Seeing ourselves reflected in society is not simply a desire, but a necessity for validation and acceptance. Pride, although often dismissed as an unnecessary spectacle, is a vital celebration for queer individuals, that makes us feel seen and validated. It is a powerful declaration of our right to exist and love openly. In my eyes, sharing some aspects of queer experience with you, is providing an opportunity for deeper understanding and empathy.
As we celebrate the progress made by our community and continue the fight for equality, I would like to emphasise that there is no right way to be queer and everyone’s experiences are vastly different. We should strive to amplify the voices and perspectives of all members of the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that their truths are not just acknowledged but celebrated.