Queer

Queer is a controversial word used for people whose sexual orientation and/or gender identity differ from the norm: a unifying umbrella term for people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgendered and/or intersex. In this usage, it is usually a synonym of such terms as LGBT or lesbigay.

The term is often capitalised when referring to an identity or community, rather than merely a sexual fact (compare the capitalized use of Deaf), a usage some regard as pretentious and elitist.

Among homosexuals, more people identify as "gay" than as "queer." "Queer" is a much more political term and is often used by those who are politically active; by those who strongly reject traditional gender identities; by those who reject sexual identities such as gay, lesbian, bisexual and straight; by those who see themselves as opressed by what they call the heteronormativity of the larger culture, and by those whose sexual preferences make them a minority (for example, BDSM practitioners).

Many people, however, identify primarily as Queer rather than gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgendered or intersex. Some feel that other labels do not adequately describe their sexual identity and preferences. Many LGBT people believe that using the umbrella term queer is a positive way to reclaim a term that was previously used against them, stripping the term of its power to insult. This usage is becoming increasingly common among youth. It is not always capitalized.

Historically, the term was an epithet for gay men, bordering on profanity. Since the term originated, and in many circumstances persists, as a homophobic slur, and because another common meaning of the word is "strange", many members of sexual minorities do not favour its use.

The term first attained common usage during the 1990s, when it was popularized by the activist group Queer Nation.

Queer studies as an academic discipline is now established at many universities.

Queercore, formerly called homocore, is underground (indie, punk, etc.) queer music.

See also Queer Culture, genderqueer, taboo, profanity, hate speech, fag.

External link

• Judith's Butler page at the European Graduate School