Working as I do, in a queer affirmative manner, it becomes easy to task Queer and LGBTQ+ affirmative for granted. Rather like a fish does see water because it is all around them, or the way that we do not notice air… until it is not there. So I thought it would be good to have a stab at describing what Queer affirmative means to me.
Being Queer affirmative means actively supporting and validating the identities and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in a positive and affirming way. This approach is rooted in the recognition and respect for diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions, and it aims to create an inclusive, supportive, and non-judgmental environment.
Key Aspects of Being Queer Affirmative:
- Respect for Identity: It involves recognising and respecting the self-identified gender and sexual orientation of individuals without imposing heteronormative or cis-normative assumptions.
- Inclusivity: Queer affirmative practices ensure that spaces, conversations, policies, and services are inclusive of LGBTQ+ people. This might involve using inclusive language, advocating for equal rights, and ensuring that LGBTQ+ people feel welcomed and valued.
- Challenging Discrimination: A Queer affirmative stance actively challenges homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of discrimination, both in individual interactions and within broader societal structures.
- Education and Awareness: It involves educating oneself and others about LGBTQ+ issues, histories, and experiences to better understand and support queer individuals. This education often includes learning about intersectionality and how different identities (e.g., race, gender, sexuality, class) intersect and affect people’s experiences.
- Mental Health and Well-being: In a therapeutic or support context, being queer affirmative means providing mental health support that is sensitive to and affirming of LGBTQ+ experiences. It involves creating a safe space for individuals to explore their identities without fear of judgment.
- Visibility and Representation: It emphasises the importance of positive representation of LGBTQ+ people in media, literature, education, and other public spheres. Queer affirmative approaches advocate for the visibility of queer voices and experiences.
In essence, being Queer affirmative is about much, much more than just tolerance; it’s about active support, advocacy, and creating environments where LGBTQ+ individuals can thrive authentically and safely.