queero:

The LGBTQ community does not always agree on what terms they prefer and which ones they find derogatory. Recently it seems that we are reclaiming the terms that once were applied to us as insults. As our attitudes to these terms change so do their definitions. For our straight allies this can be quite confusing. Generally speaking most LGBTQ communities are accepting of most of the terms when used by “family.” Outside of the community is where this gets a little trickier. So what does queer really mean - how does our community feel about the term? And maybe more importantly, how do we use these terms appropriately and positively?

For Be Yr Own Queero we used queer because it is an all encompassing term that represents all of the identities in the LGBTQ community. An important aspect of the term queer is that it doesn’t apply a specific label. The usage of the term queer in place of lesbian, transgendered, etc. could be compared to using the term partner to refer to one’s significant other. It doesn’t imply too much and is therefor less offensive to more people. The straight community could take advantage of using the term queer because of its current political correctness and avoid being potentially offensive.

There is however disagreement within the community on this view of queer. I recently read “Queer as White Folk,” a piece by Keith Boykin, who is African American. The article explains that queer is not a term used by the African American community. He says, ” the word ‘queer’ is just as white as the television show that bears its name.” So maybe its not a perfect term, but then again what is? Although I understand Keith’s point that queer may not be a completely inclusive term, I believe it is less offensive and more versatile than other terms .Throughout our community we should focus our energy on doing more positive actions that celebrate our diversity. We should also constantly remember what unifies us, our struggle for for equality.

I think the dialogue should continue, especially with the straight community because there are many other terms to that should be examined. It is important to ask people what they feel comfortable with. I was very surprised when I had a co-worker ask me recently if it offended me if he used the term ‘straight’ to imply that something was good or okay. I sincerely thanked him, and realized that I myself had overlooked my own personal use of straight in the context that it was synonymous with good. So lets talk about it…

queero:

This past weekend the Rainbow Factory hosted the first L Word party, here is what we thought about the first episode:

babe useless: Oh my god, I can’t believe I’m still watching this show. At least I know Jenny dies! Yay!

teknacolorninja: It was all “catch up” and predictable. Although, I’d like to know if Shane will ever get Molly’s letter…you can count on Jenny to put it in the attic!?

Bizzzle: I’ve only got a one word review, disappointment. The drama will bring me back next week though.

scantron: Is it over yet?? and why am I still watching it? Can Nikki please not be in any more episodes now?

whiskeycat: I didn’t see it but I heard jenny dies. I thought she was annoying. I hope they don’t bring back her ghost. Shane and Alice are still hot.

fighting fucking laughing sneezing kissing crying fisting eating shitting burping licking smelling queefing

Give us your two cents on the L Word. Just comment below in 3 sentences or less, and if you live in the Wilmington area be sure to join us again next Sunday 8:30 @ the Rainbow Factory. Be there and be square.

queero:

Dear Friends,

I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season, filled with all the things that matter most to you and yours. I’m writing you to ask you personally to join me in the cause for equality. Too often am I reminded that people are still unjustly treated because of their sexual and or gender orientation. Recently I was reminded on Wednesday, December 24, when I was informed by a co-worker that being gay is acceptable but to be transgenders was not. I was absolutely irate and wanted to go postal on him.   Instead I am writing you. Accepting difference should be literal, acceptance of all difference.  The LGBT community has experienced discrimination unlike any other group cross-culturally. I am sick and tired of hiding my orientation so that others may be comfortable. Over the last month I have collaborated with a few of my closest queer-identified friends to help shape my hometown of  Wilmington, NC  into a safer more accepting community for other queers. Our group, BYOQ has a blog, a fan page on Facebook, and is hosting events and parties in the new year. Together we will educate our community and teach tolerance. We will do absolutely everything we can to help facilitate a stronger and more visible LGBT community in Wilmington. Please join our fan page here. Bookmark the blog. Stay current with the battle for our civil rights, discuss these topics with your straight allies and remind them of your struggles and always defend yourself. We will make a difference.

Very Sincerely,

LB

Happy New Queer!

from your favorite queers @ byoq

-bizzzle,scantron,tecknacolornija,babeuseless, and whiskeycat.