Answering questions on the label “queer”

Anna Log

She/They

Staff Writer

11/15/22

There’s a lot of confusion around different identities with such a wide range of stereotypes and beliefs that can be spread.  From the spectrums that are sexuality (including asexuality) and gender, there is plentiful information to take in.  However, it’s important to get to know a bit about LGBTQ+ identities in order to help understand and respect those around you!

“Queer” is a term that has been reclaimed by the LGBTQ+ community and is used to describe anyone who lies within the community instead of labels. Despite having previously been used as a slur, it is now also a respectful way to refer to a person in the community!  However, this mostly is used within the community only, especially to older LGBTQ+ generations it can still come across as harmful.

As stated by Ella Braidwood of PinkNews, a UK-based newspaper that advocates for and follows political progress on LGBTQ+ rights in the UK and worldwide, “In the English language, queer dates back to the 16th century, and was possibly derived from the German word ‘quer’, which translates as ‘oblique’ or ‘perverse’.”  Time and political activism proved to allow the word to become one of reclamation for the LGBTQ+ community, as “…in the 1970s and 1980s, some gay rights campaigners positively reclaimed the word “queer” as an umbrella term for gender and sexual minorities.”  Today, especially in younger LGBTQ+ people, the term is used to refer to someone who is not cisgender or straight.

  People often define themselves as “queer” to avoid labels because labels can feel too constraining, as the word “queer” can be used to refer to a person’s gender, sexuality, or any part of their identity.  Due to this, it is also used to avoid having to give someone a long explanation when a time comes when they need to explain their identity to someone else.  This especially goes for a person who uses a lot of micro labels for a clearer definition of themselves; micro labels are generally very specific ways to pinpoint an exact aspect of identity, and explaining it all to someone could create a lengthy conversation.  Simply coming out to someone as “queer” or referring to yourself as such, it avoids that!

Additionally, using the term “queer” as a label is one that allows an easy understanding of oneself and of another person due to its open nature, making it all the more important.  However, as mentioned previously, “queer” has historically been used as a slur.  So, here is a simple PSA on its usage:

An easy way to determine if you are using the word “queer” with respect is if you are using derogatory language or tone.  For example, calling someone “They’re a queer” can be demeaning as reducing them to “a queer” can be considered dehumanizing.  Instead, it would be better for the person to say “They’re a queer person” rather than “They’re a queer”!

“queer” is a helpful term that allows for a greater understanding of a person as it has the capability to encompass many different labels and LGBTQ+ identities all in one word.  By understanding it and using it in a way that is respectful, you are respecting your queer friends and peers as well!