Etoile
Mod, 2003-2015
- Joined
- Dec 20, 2000
- Posts
- 17,049
Queer. Fag. Dyke. Gay.
These words have all been used negatively to hurt gays and lesbians. They are also all used by gays and lesbians in a positive way - they're being reclaimed.
My mother would have an absolute fit if she knew my friends and I use the term "gay" frequently - even as in "oh, that's so gay!" She'd be even more horrified if she knew I've said "my parents are gay" on occasion. My mother is only aware of the negative use, though, the one used by middle schoolers to hurt each other or even just complain about a homework assignment. When I use the word, it's a term of affection, and doesn't mean I don't get pissed off when it's used negatively.
Is it safe to reclaim these words if they're still being used negatively? Does it make a difference?
These words have all been used negatively to hurt gays and lesbians. They are also all used by gays and lesbians in a positive way - they're being reclaimed.
My mother would have an absolute fit if she knew my friends and I use the term "gay" frequently - even as in "oh, that's so gay!" She'd be even more horrified if she knew I've said "my parents are gay" on occasion. My mother is only aware of the negative use, though, the one used by middle schoolers to hurt each other or even just complain about a homework assignment. When I use the word, it's a term of affection, and doesn't mean I don't get pissed off when it's used negatively.
Is it safe to reclaim these words if they're still being used negatively? Does it make a difference?