6.4 LGBTQ+ language

LGBTQ+ language has evolved alongside social movements, reflecting changing attitudes and identities. From early medicalized terms to self-chosen labels, the linguistic journey mirrors broader societal shifts in accepting diverse orientations and gender identities.

Reclamation of slurs, development of coded language, and adoption of gender-neutral terms showcase linguistic empowerment. Media representation, intersectionality, and cultural variations further shape LGBTQ+ language, influencing popular culture and societal understanding.

Historical context of LGBTQ+ language

• LGBTQ+ language evolved alongside social movements and cultural shifts, reflecting changing attitudes and identities
• Linguistic developments in LGBTQ+ communities mirror broader societal changes in perception and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities
• Understanding the historical context of LGBTQ+ language provides insight into the power dynamics and struggles for recognition within popular culture

Early LGBTQ+ terminology

• Medicalized terms dominated early discourse, pathologizing non-heterosexual orientations and non-conforming gender identities
• "Homosexual" emerged in the late 19th century as a clinical term, later adopted and repurposed by LGBTQ+ communities
• "Invert" used in early 20th century to describe individuals whose gender expression differed from societal norms
• Euphemisms and coded language developed as protective measures against discrimination and legal persecution

Evolution of identity labels

• Shift from medical terminology to self-chosen identity labels empowered LGBTQ+ individuals
• "Gay" gained popularity in the 1960s as a more positive alternative to "homosexual"
• "Lesbian" became widely used in the 1970s, coinciding with the women's liberation movement
• Expansion of the acronym from LGB to LGBT, then to LGBTQ+ reflects growing recognition of diverse identities
• Emergence of terms like "non-binary," "genderqueer," and "pansexual" in recent decades addresses previously unacknowledged identities

Impact of AIDS crisis

• AIDS crisis in the 1980s and 1990s significantly influenced LGBTQ+ language and discourse
• Terms like "safe sex" and "HIV-positive" entered mainstream vocabulary
• "ACT UP" (AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) introduced activist language and slogans into popular culture
• "Partner" gained prominence as a gender-neutral term for significant others, partly due to hospital visitation rights issues
• Stigmatizing language around AIDS led to community efforts to promote more respectful and accurate terminology

Reclamation of slurs

• Reclamation of slurs in LGBTQ+ communities demonstrates linguistic empowerment and resistance against oppression
• This process challenges societal norms and redefines the relationship between language and identity
• Reclaimed terms often retain complex and contested meanings, reflecting ongoing debates within LGBTQ+ communities

Queer as reclaimed term

• "Queer" transformed from a derogatory slur to an empowering umbrella term for LGBTQ+ identities
• Academic field of Queer Theory emerged in the 1990s, further legitimizing the term in scholarly contexts
• Usage of "queer" varies among generations and subcultures within LGBTQ+ communities
• Some individuals embrace "queer" as a political statement against assimilation and binary categorizations
• Controversy persists around the use of "queer," with some LGBTQ+ people still finding it offensive

Other reclaimed LGBTQ+ slurs

• "Dyke" reclaimed by some lesbian and queer women, often used in pride marches and activist contexts
• "Faggot" or "fag" reclaimed by some gay men, though remains highly controversial due to its violent history
• "Tranny" reclaimed by some transgender individuals, but widely considered offensive when used by cisgender people
• "Sissy" embraced by some gender non-conforming individuals as a celebration of femininity

Controversy and debate

• Intergenerational disagreements exist over the use and reclamation of certain slurs
• Debates arise over who has the "right" to reclaim specific terms within LGBTQ+ communities
• Context and speaker identity play crucial roles in determining the acceptability of reclaimed terms
• Some argue that reclamation normalizes hate speech, while others view it as a form of linguistic activism
• Ongoing discussions about the effectiveness and consequences of reclamation in fighting discrimination

LGBTQ+ slang and coded language

• LGBTQ+ slang and coded language developed as protective measures against discrimination and violence
• These linguistic practices foster in-group solidarity and create shared cultural references
• The evolution of LGBTQ+ slang reflects changing social attitudes and the influence of popular culture

Polari and historical codes

• Polari, a secret language used by gay men in Britain, peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century
• Polari incorporated elements from various languages (Italian, Romani, rhyming slang) to create a unique lexicon
• Key Polari terms entered mainstream British slang (naff, zhoosh)
• Hanky code used colored handkerchiefs to discreetly signal sexual preferences and desires
• "Friend of Dorothy" served as a covert way to identify fellow gay individuals, referencing Judy Garland's role in "The Wizard of Oz"

Modern LGBTQ+ slang

• "Tea" used to refer to gossip or drama, originating in Black and Latinx drag communities
• "Fierce" adopted to describe something impressive or powerful, particularly in queer and drag contexts
• "Werk" or "work" as an exclamation of approval or encouragement
• "Shade" and "reading" describe forms of witty insults or criticism, popularized by drag culture
• "U-Haul lesbian" jokes about lesbians moving in together quickly, reflecting stereotypes and community in-jokes

Regional variations

• "Gaysian" used in some Asian-American LGBTQ+ communities to describe gay Asian individuals
• "Twink" more commonly used in Western gay male communities, while "小鲜肉" (xiao xian rou) serves a similar function in Chinese contexts
• "Batty boy" used as a slur in Jamaican contexts, while reclaimed by some British LGBTQ+ individuals of Caribbean descent
• "Hijra" refers to a third gender identity in South Asian cultures, with specific linguistic and cultural connotations
• "Two-Spirit" used by some Indigenous North American cultures to describe gender-variant individuals, with meanings varying across tribes

Gender-neutral language

• Gender-neutral language aims to avoid bias towards particular sex or gender identities
• Its use in popular culture reflects growing awareness of gender diversity and inclusivity
• Adoption of gender-neutral language varies across different languages and cultural contexts

Pronouns and honorifics

• Singular "they/them" gained widespread acceptance as a gender-neutral pronoun in English
• Neopronouns like "xe/xem" or "ze/zir" created to provide additional gender-neutral options
• "Mx." introduced as a gender-neutral alternative to "Mr.," "Mrs.," or "Ms."
• Some languages (Swedish) introduced new gender-neutral pronouns ("hen")
• Pronoun sharing and asking became more common in professional and social settings

Gender-inclusive terms

• "Partner" or "spouse" used instead of gender-specific terms like "husband" or "wife"
• "Sibling" as an alternative to "brother" or "sister"
• "Parent" or "guardian" instead of "mother" or "father"
• Job titles adapted for inclusivity ("firefighter" instead of "fireman," "police officer" instead of "policeman")
• "Folks" or "everyone" used as gender-neutral alternatives to "ladies and gentlemen"

Challenges in different languages

• Grammatical gender in languages like Spanish or French poses challenges for gender-neutral expression
• Spanish-speaking communities experiment with endings like "-e" or "-x" (Latinx, amigues) for gender inclusivity
• French debates use of "iel" as a gender-neutral pronoun alternative to "il" or "elle"
• Chinese introduces gender-neutral written characters combining elements of male and female characters
• Hebrew, with its highly gendered grammar, sees the creation of new forms to accommodate non-binary identities

LGBTQ+ language in media

• Media representation significantly influences the visibility and normalization of LGBTQ+ language
• Popular culture serves as both a reflection and driver of linguistic changes in LGBTQ+ communities
• The increasing presence of LGBTQ+ voices in media contributes to broader societal acceptance and understanding

Representation in film and TV

• Evolution from coded references (Hollywood's "Celluloid Closet") to explicit LGBTQ+ characters and storylines
• TV shows like "Pose" introduce ballroom culture terms (reading, voguing) to mainstream audiences
• "Queer Eye" popularizes LGBTQ+ slang and promotes positive representations of gay men
• Increased visibility of transgender characters in shows like "Transparent" and "Pose" normalizes trans-specific language
• Reality TV (RuPaul's Drag Race) brings drag terminology and LGBTQ+ slang to wider audiences

LGBTQ+ voices in literature

• LGBTQ+ literature evolves from coded references to explicit exploration of queer themes and language
• Seminal works like "Giovanni's Room" by James Baldwin introduce complex discussions of sexuality and identity
• Contemporary authors (Ocean Vuong, Carmen Maria Machado) incorporate LGBTQ+ experiences and language into mainstream literature
• Young adult literature increasingly features LGBTQ+ characters and themes, introducing inclusive language to younger readers
• Poetry collections by queer poets (Danez Smith, Saeed Jones) showcase innovative use of LGBTQ+ language and imagery

Social media and online communities

• Tumblr played a significant role in popularizing and disseminating LGBTQ+ terminology among younger users
• Hashtags like #TransIsBeautiful and #BiVisibility increase awareness and create community on platforms like Twitter and Instagram
• YouTube creators produce LGBTQ+-focused content, explaining terminology and experiences to wide audiences
• Dating apps (Grindr, Her) introduce and popularize LGBTQ+ slang and abbreviations
• TikTok emerges as a platform for LGBTQ+ youth to share experiences and language, creating viral trends and new slang

Intersectionality in LGBTQ+ language

• Intersectionality in LGBTQ+ language recognizes the complex interplay of multiple identities and experiences
• Language evolves to address the unique challenges and perspectives of individuals with intersecting marginalized identities
• Intersectional approaches in popular culture highlight the diversity within LGBTQ+ communities

Race and ethnicity intersections

• Terms like "same gender loving" used in some Black LGBTQ+ communities as an alternative to "gay" or "lesbian"
• "Quare" theory emerges as a Black queer alternative to predominantly white queer theory
• "Latinx" and "Chicanx" developed to provide gender-neutral alternatives to Latino/Latina and Chicano/Chicana
• "Gaysian" used to describe the intersection of Asian and LGBTQ+ identities
• "Two-Spirit" reclaimed by some Indigenous LGBTQ+ individuals to describe gender-variant identities rooted in cultural traditions

Class and socioeconomic factors

• "Transnormativity" critiques the focus on medical transition, which may be inaccessible to lower-income individuals
• "Ball culture" and "houses" in LGBTQ+ communities of color reflect chosen families and support systems
• "Survival sex work" acknowledges the economic realities faced by some LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly trans women of color
• "Gay for pay" describes individuals who engage in same-sex activities for economic reasons, not necessarily identifying as LGBTQ+
• "Pink capitalism" or "rainbow capitalism" critique the commercialization of LGBTQ+ identities and pride

Disability and LGBTQ+ identities

• "Crip queer theory" emerges as an academic field exploring intersections of disability and LGBTQ+ identities
• "Neuroqueer" describes individuals who are both neurodivergent and LGBTQ+
• "Mad pride" movement intersects with LGBTQ+ activism, challenging stigma around mental health and gender/sexuality
• "Deaf queer" community develops unique sign language expressions for LGBTQ+ identities and experiences
• "Queerability" advocates for recognition of disabled LGBTQ+ experiences and rights

LGBTQ+ language in different cultures

• LGBTQ+ language varies significantly across cultures, reflecting diverse understandings of gender and sexuality
• Western LGBTQ+ terminology often dominates global discourse, but local concepts and terms persist
• Cultural exchange and globalization lead to hybrid forms of LGBTQ+ language and identity expression

Western vs non-Western concepts

• Western gender binary contrasts with cultures recognizing multiple genders (Hijra in South Asia, Fa'afafine in Samoa)
• "Coming out" narrative central to Western LGBTQ+ experiences may not translate to cultures with different family structures
• Some non-Western cultures have long-standing traditions of gender fluidity (Bugis people of Indonesia recognize five genders)
• Western terms like "gay" or "transgender" adopted in some non-Western contexts, sometimes alongside local terminology
• Debates arise over the applicability of Western LGBTQ+ frameworks to non-Western cultural contexts

Indigenous LGBTQ+ terminologies

• "Two-Spirit" used by some North American Indigenous people to describe gender-variant individuals
• "Muxe" in Zapotec culture of Mexico refers to individuals assigned male at birth who embody both male and female characteristics
• "Sistergirls" and "Brotherboys" used by some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQ+ people in Australia
• "Takatāpui" in Māori culture describes individuals with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations
• "Winkte" among Lakota people traditionally referred to male-bodied individuals who took on feminine roles

Religious influences on language

• "Side A" and "Side B" used in some Christian LGBTQ+ circles to denote affirming and non-affirming stances on same-sex relationships
• "Queer theology" emerges as a field reinterpreting religious texts through LGBTQ+ perspectives
• "Zina" in Islamic contexts sometimes used to discuss same-sex relations, though interpretations vary
• "Kama" in Hindu traditions provides a framework for discussing diverse forms of love and desire
• "Tikkun olam" (repairing the world) adopted by some Jewish LGBTQ+ activists as a motivation for advocacy

Legal and political language

• Legal and political language shapes public discourse and policy around LGBTQ+ rights
• Terminology in this domain often reflects ongoing struggles for recognition and equality
• Changes in legal and political language can have significant impacts on LGBTQ+ individuals' lives and rights

LGBTQ+ rights terminology

• "Marriage equality" replaced "gay marriage" to emphasize equal rights rather than difference
• "Sexual orientation" and "gender identity" become key terms in anti-discrimination legislation
• "Gender confirmation surgery" increasingly used instead of "sex reassignment surgery"
• "Chosen family" gains legal recognition in some jurisdictions, acknowledging non-traditional family structures
• "SOGI" (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) used in international human rights contexts

Discrimination and hate speech

• "Homophobia," "biphobia," and "transphobia" describe prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals
• "Deadnaming" refers to the harmful practice of using a transgender person's birth name without their consent
• "Misgendering" describes the act of referring to someone using incorrect gender pronouns or terms
• "Conversion therapy" criticized as a harmful practice attempting to change sexual orientation or gender identity
• "Pinkwashing" accuses entities of using LGBTQ+-friendly messaging to distract from other issues

Advocacy and activism language

• "Pride" becomes a rallying cry and symbol of LGBTQ+ visibility and resistance
• "Out and proud" encourages visibility and self-affirmation in LGBTQ+ communities
• "Allies" describes supportive non-LGBTQ+ individuals, though debates arise over the term's use
• "Intersectionality" emphasizes the interconnected nature of social categorizations and systems of oppression
• "No pride for some of us without liberation for all of us" highlights the importance of inclusive activism

LGBTQ+ language in education

• LGBTQ+ language in education reflects ongoing efforts to create inclusive learning environments
• Incorporation of LGBTQ+ topics in curricula faces both support and opposition in various contexts
• Educational settings play a crucial role in normalizing LGBTQ+ language and promoting acceptance

Inclusive language in schools

• "Safe space" or "brave space" designations aim to create supportive environments for LGBTQ+ students
• Gender-neutral bathroom policies introduce terms like "all-gender restroom" into school vocabulary
• "Chosen name" policies allow students to use their preferred names in school records and interactions
• "GSA" (Gender and Sexuality Alliance or Gay-Straight Alliance) groups provide support and advocacy in schools
• "LGBTQ+ inclusive sex education" expands traditional curricula to address diverse identities and relationships

LGBTQ+ topics in curricula

• "LGBTQ+ history month" initiatives introduce students to important figures and events in queer history
• Literature curricula increasingly include works by LGBTQ+ authors and featuring LGBTQ+ characters
• "Comprehensive sex education" addresses diverse sexual orientations and gender identities
• Social studies curricula incorporate discussions of LGBTQ+ rights movements and legal milestones
• Science classes address biological diversity in sex characteristics and the spectrum of gender identities

Challenges and controversies

• "No promo homo" laws in some jurisdictions prohibit or restrict LGBTQ+ topics in schools
• Debates over age-appropriateness of LGBTQ+ content lead to terms like "age-appropriate" becoming contentious
• "Parental rights" arguments used to oppose LGBTQ+-inclusive curricula in some areas
• "Book bans" targeting LGBTQ+ content in school libraries spark debates over censorship and representation
• "Religious freedom" claims sometimes used to justify discrimination against LGBTQ+ students or content

Future of LGBTQ+ language

• LGBTQ+ language continues to evolve rapidly, reflecting changing social attitudes and identities
• Technological advancements and globalization significantly impact the development and spread of LGBTQ+ terminology
• The future of LGBTQ+ language likely involves increased recognition of diverse identities and experiences

Emerging identities and terms

• "Demisexual" and "graysexual" describe identities on the asexual spectrum
• "Xenogender" refers to gender identities that don't align with traditional human understandings of gender
• "Neurogender" describes gender identities influenced by neurodivergent experiences
• "Polygender" and "pangender" expand understanding of multi-gender identities
• "Abrosexual" describes individuals whose sexuality is fluid and changes over time

Technology and language evolution

• Social media platforms facilitate rapid dissemination of new LGBTQ+ terms and concepts
• AI language models trained on LGBTQ+ inclusive data could help normalize diverse identities in technology
• Virtual reality spaces allow for exploration of gender expression and identity in new ways
• Emoji and reaction GIFs incorporating LGBTQ+ themes become part of digital communication
• Blockchain technology explored for creating secure, decentralized records for name and gender marker changes

Globalization of LGBTQ+ discourse

• Increased cultural exchange leads to adoption and adaptation of LGBTQ+ terms across languages
• Global LGBTQ+ rights movements foster shared vocabulary while respecting local cultural contexts
• Translation challenges arise as LGBTQ+ concepts cross linguistic and cultural boundaries
• International organizations work to develop standardized LGBTQ+ terminology for global use
• Tensions between local LGBTQ+ identities and global LGBTQ+ culture lead to hybrid linguistic forms