QUEER AF: EMBRACING YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF IN A HETERONORMATIVE WORLD

In a world that often defaults to heteronormativity, embracing your queerness can feel like wearing a pair of too-tight shoes. That is to say: it may be a little uncomfortable. With the right mindset, you can take pride in your identity every step of the way. Here are some strategies for living authentically and unapologetically:

Self-Reflection and Acceptance

Start by understanding your own identity. What would be the point of going on a self-acceptance expedition if you don't know who you are? Exploration of labels or dabbling in queer social circles are just a couple of ways to discover who you are beyond a heteronormative lens. Don't be afraid of switching things up; sexuality and gender aren't linear, and neither are you. Recognize that there's no one way to be queer, and your journey is uniquely yours.

Build a Supportive Community

Finding people who understand you is equally as important as knowing yourself. Surround yourself with people who celebrate and affirm your identity, whether they are fellow members of the queer community or allies who have your back. Seek out queer-friendly spaces, both online and offline, where you can connect with like-minded individuals. To build your support system, you need your pillars of pals to keep you standing.

Educate Yourself and Others

Knowledge is power. Learning about LGBTQ+ history, rights, and diversity under the umbrella of sexuality can help you better understand your place in the community. Encourage your friends to do the same and make a point of familiarizing yourself with new developments. You don't need a degree in queerology in order to help yourself and others. The gay agenda has always and will continue to foster understanding and acceptance first.

Express Yourself Authentically

 Fashion has always been instrumental in the LGBTQ+ community. For centuries, it was used by queer people to identify one another and celebrate their identities outwardly without abrasive criticism. Go against the grain like the pioneering lesbians of the '70s with 'anti-fashion' or activism through accessory with the rainbow wave of recent years. Cherish the legacy of what it means to be gay with your unique tastes, whether it's in fashion, art, or personal interests. Self-expression is power.

Advocate for LGBTQ+ Rights

 To be gay is to be born with a sense of pride, not just in your identity but in strength, passed down by those who have been fighting for a place at the table for queer people. Get involved in advocacy work. Finding people who stand on common ground with you sets the foundation for friendship. Whether it's volunteering, attending rallies, or supporting LGBTQ+ organizations, every effort counts towards positive change. Pave your own path with some of these resources:

GLAAD Resource List

Human Rights Campaign online & phone support services 

Challenge Heteronormative Norms 

As a queer person, your existence is a protest against the status quo–you might as well commit to the bit. Don't be afraid to question societal norms. Growing up, we see fairytales of princesses saved by princes; the guy gets the girl, yadda yadda yadda. In this life, you have the opportunity to be the main character of your own story by advocating for inclusive policies and diversity, whether it's on the page, on the screen, or in your own community. 

Practice Self-Care

Paying attention to yourself is equally as important as doing the same for others. Give yourself that grace, too. Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is crucial. Our true selves come to the surface when we are in good health of body and mind; make that your focus when things get tough along the way. Prioritize self-care to stay resilient in the face of challenges. In the words of queer activist and writer Audre Lorde: "Caring for myself is not self-indulgence. It is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare."

Celebrate Queer History and Achievements

Look into influential queer figures who have made significant strides to a more accepting society. Recognize names like Marsh P. Johnson, Oscar Wilde, and Divine for what they have contributed to human rights, art, and entertainment. Those who came before are the predecessors of pride; they are the reason why so many young queer people are able to find happiness in the world today. Their stories can be a source of inspiration.

Foster Inclusivity

If you're not in a hub of queer flourish, you can create your own spaces that are welcoming to all identities. Be an ally to other LGBTQ+ people and stand up against discrimination. You have the power to spark change in your own community, no matter how small. Not everyone has the ability to move to a city or a place that allows them the freedom to be open about their identity. You can be their reminder that they are not alone.

Remember, You're Valid

No matter what, your identity is valid and deserving of respect. Sometimes being queer can feel like the whole world is against you. A snide comment from a relative, friends making a joke at the expense of your sexuality, or the posterboard threats from protestors can be a lot to handle. Regardless, you have the right to exist. You continue to thrive in a world that sometimes forgets the beauty of queer authenticity.

By embracing your queer identity, you contribute to a more inclusive world where everyone can be their true selves. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Us bitches gotta band together.