Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Secret Identities

One of K.’s friends is gender-queer. Another is pansexual. I need to consult a dictionary after I meet them, but I couldn’t imagine better friends for her, and I’m so glad they can proudly be who they are. I didn’t know anyone who was openly gay in school. I know half-a-dozen who have come out since.
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9 comments:

  1. SusanMarch 14, 2018 at 9:42 AM

    I read Slate's "Dear Prudence" column, and have consulted the urban dictionary about these terms too. My vocabulary wasn't up to date, and probably still isn't. Sad to think about all the people who once had to hide something so basic as their sexuality. I hope the current climate of acceptance lasts.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SabineMarch 16, 2018 at 8:28 AM

      I think we can assume the language around sexuality is fluid and ever-changing.

      Delete
  2. CedarwaxwingMarch 15, 2018 at 2:09 AM

    Well-written. I was thinking of a post along these lines but I don't need to now. You said it better than I could.

    ReplyDelete
  3. SusanMarch 15, 2018 at 11:44 AM

    And then this morning Prudence's column included a letter that began like this: "Last spring I began formally identifying as nonbinary." I have no idea what that means.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SabineMarch 16, 2018 at 8:29 AM

      I think non-binary and gender queer are the same. Or maybe similar. I don't know.

      Delete
  4. HelenMarch 15, 2018 at 5:55 PM

    It is all very confusing... and I don't really understand the emphasis on one's identity. Or being persecuted for it, however defined.

    Great post.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SabineMarch 16, 2018 at 8:31 AM

      I like to think the moment the persecution disappears, the need to emphasize one's identity will also disappear.

      Delete
  5. MaliMarch 15, 2018 at 11:06 PM

    Yes, I also need to consult the dictionary. I'm scared of giving offence, especially when all I want to do is support people's choices.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Indigo BuntingMarch 19, 2018 at 9:18 PM

    This is great.

    ReplyDelete

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