Assignment task:
Respond to the post below
The Trans, non-binary, and Bi+/Pan community have always struggled with poor representation and support within the LGBTQ+ community. It is surprising to think that there can be a minority group within a minority group, but that is exactly what is happening here. Even though Bi+ individuals make up almost half of the population of LGBTQ+ members, few of them feel comfortable enough to come out and express that part of themselves because of stereotypes and lack of support from their own community and mainstream society. Those who identify as Bi+/Pan, Trans and non-binary face these problems with stereotypes and misunderstanding because many people in mainstream society do not understand that sexuality and identity is a spectrum, not a black and white choice that is easy for everyone to make. For instance, one stereotype could be that bisexual individuals are just confused and don't know whether or not they like men or women. The concept of liking a person regardless of gender identity or even being open about liking men and women equally or not equally is not easy for some people to wrap their heads around, which is shown even in the LGBTQ+ community by the lack of support and recognition that these groups get.
The label queer used to be seen as a derogatory term towards the LGBTQ+ community and can still be seen in that way by some individuals; however, it has since been reclaimed by some people as their chosen word and form of expression. Today, the word Queer means to not fit in the cultural norms that define sexuality and gender expression. These people feel as if they do not fit in with the dominant norms because of the way they choose to express their sexuality or gender identity. They personally do not fit in the typical boxes society has created for male and female, straight or gay. Because of this, Queer is the term they believe best defines their unique identity. Not all LGBTQ+ individuals will use this term because it can be viewed as offensive, or does not appropriately define their own identity, but for some people identifying as Queer is the closest way to describe who they are in simplified terms