Tyler Ford Explains The History Behind the Word "Queer" | InQueery | them.

Summary

This video explores the complex history of the word 'queer,' tracing its origins from the 16th century Scottish poetry to its use as a homophobic slur by John Sholto Douglas in the late 19th century. It highlights the term's reclamation during the Stonewall Riots and its evolution into a symbol of pride and resistance within the LGBTQ community. The narrative covers significant events, including the AIDS crisis and the founding of Queer Nation, illustrating how the term has become a broad, inclusive identifier for diverse sexualities and genders, reflecting a progressive shift in activism and culture.

Takeaways

• 📜 The term 'queer' originated in 16th-century Scotland, initially used in a poetic context.
• ⚔️ The word was later adopted as a homophobic slur by the 9th Marquis of Queensberry in the 19th century.
• ❤️ 'Queer' became a term of defiance within the LGBTQ community, particularly during the Stonewall Riots in 1969.
• 💔 The AIDS crisis in the 1980s led to significant activism, with 'queer' being embraced as a badge of courage.
• 🏳️‍🌈 The formation of Queer Nation in 1990 marked a pivotal moment in LGBTQ activism, promoting visibility and acceptance.
• 🌐 The internet has played a crucial role in connecting LGBTQ individuals and spreading information rapidly.
• 🗣️ The modern use of 'queer' serves as an expansive umbrella term for diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
• ⚖️ While many embrace the term, not all LGBTQ members feel comfortable identifying as 'queer'.
• 🤝 The evolution of the LGBTQ movement reflects a more inclusive approach to politics and community representation.
• 🔍 The ongoing discussion about 'queer' showcases the complexity of identity within the LGBTQ spectrum.

Q & A

What is the origin of the word 'queer' according to the Oxford English Dictionary?

The word 'queer' originated from sixteenth-century Scottish people and was first used in a poetic context by Dunbar and Kennedy, involving accusations of sexual perversion or weakness.

How did John Sholto Douglas, the 9th Marquis of Queensberry, contribute to the negative connotation of the word 'queer'?

John Sholto Douglas used 'queer' as a homophobic slur in 1894, specifically to denounce his son Alfred Douglas's relationship with Oscar Wilde, which led to Wilde's arrest and conviction.

What significant event in 1969 marked the beginning of the gay rights movement in the U.S.?

The Stonewall Riots in 1969 marked the beginning of the gay rights movement in the United States, with members of the LGBTQ community reclaiming the term 'queer' as an act of defiance.

What impact did the AIDS crisis have on the LGBTQ community in the 1980s?

The AIDS crisis resulted in over 16,000 deaths in just five years and spurred an era of activism, significantly influencing young activists who embraced the term 'queer' as a badge of courage.

What was the role of Queer Nation, founded in 1990?

Queer Nation was founded in 1990 as a response to the AIDS crisis and aimed to promote visibility and rights for the LGBTQ community, with slogans like 'We're here, we're queer, get used to it.'

How has the internet influenced LGBTQ activism and the use of the term 'queer'?

The internet facilitated the formation of digital queer communities and allowed for rapid information sharing, which helped cement the term 'queer' into the lexicon of a new generation of LGBTQ activists.

What is the current perception of the term 'queer' within the LGBTQ community?

While many in the LGBTQ community embrace 'queer' as an inclusive umbrella term, there are still individuals, particularly older generations and some trans folks, who do not identify with it.

How did the late 1920s influence the popularity of the term 'queer'?

The late 1920s saw a peak in the use of 'queer' as it became widely known in America, reflecting a growing awareness and acceptance of diverse sexual identities.

What does the use of the term 'queer' signify for the LGBTQ community today?

Today, 'queer' signifies a more expansive and expressive identity for various sexualities and genders, reflecting the evolution of the LGBTQ movement beyond just the traditional categories.

In what way has the term 'queer' been seen as an overwhelming positive for the LGBTQ community?

The proliferation of the term 'queer' has been viewed positively as it reflects a more inclusive approach to LGBTQ politics and community, emphasizing strength in diversity.