Today, however, some people have reclaimed the word “queer” to describe their sexual orientation or gender identity.Īccording to one 2020 article, some people may refer to themselves as queer because they find that preexisting sexual orientations or gender identities do not fit them.
However, the LGBTQIA Resource Center note that people have historically used the term as a harmful slur against those whose sexuality, gender, or gender expression did not conform to their expectations. Some people may also use “queer” because their sexuality or gender may be complicated, change over time, or not fit into any preexisting sexual orientations or gender identities. For example, people who are lesbian, gay, asexual, or transgender may identify as queer. Today, a person might use the term “queer” to describe any sexual orientation or gender identity that is not heterosexual or cisgender. Share on Pinterest Image credit: Willie B.
