Queer Life
I have been queer for over half my life, having come out for the first time at around 14 years old. The term “queer” can be synonymous with the term “LGBTQIA+”. I prefer using queer because it is a word, rather than a list of letters that has the potential to be exclusive. Rather than grouping less common, but equally important identities under a + sign, the word queer includes everyone, and leaves room for identities we don’t have the language for yet.
Below, I have shared some of my own videos on my queer life, including information about different identities, and my coming out journey (so far!). Coming out is never a one-time thing, and as queer people, we might “come out” to every new person we meet. Much like the love lives of straight people, queer people’s love lives and general life experiences are unique, like fingerprints! Queer people are not a monolith, so my experiences may not match those of the queer people you know in your life. If you yourself are queer, your experiences may differ to mine, and that’s fine! There are also some more impartial resources at the bottom of the page, from national groups around the UK.
My Coming Out Story
We all know by now that we don’t come out only once, but here is the evolution of my queer identity, and all the notable times I came out to people. There are many reasons someone’s identity might change: exploration, learning about yourself, new understanding of language, or new identities being described.
What Are All Those Flags?
My queer identity is represented by many different pride flags. Here’s a quick explainer on which identity each of the flags belong to, what they mean, and why I use them. I also just think they’re a nice change from the Landlord Special: Magnolia walls that I have.
Growing Up Gay In Cornwall
Did you know that access to a supportive queer community varies depending on where in the country you live? Or where in the world? Cornwall is a more rural, more isolated area, where growing up queer was much more stigmatised than it was in other counties. Glad to see the community has grown since I was young!
What Does Genderqueer Mean?
I came out as Genderqueer when I was 19 (which is now over a decade ago! I was much younger when I filmed this, thank you for noticing). One of the most common questions I get about it is “what is it?”. Here I discuss what being genderqueer means for me, and some definitions that other people go by.
Useful Websites
Stonewall
Stonewall is possible the most well known LGBTQIA+ support movement out there. Named for the riots that were a pivotal turning point in the fight for Queer rights, Stonewall advocates for dignity and respect for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The Proud Trust
The Proud Trust is devoted to supporting queer young people on their journeys to living happy and fulfilling lives, as well as providing resources for both young people and their trusted adults. Their website is packed full of information that answers any question.
Family and Friends of Lesbians and Gays
FFLAG for short, supports the families and friends of queer people. While the name states Lesbians and Gays, they support all identities within the queer umbrella. They keep up to date with news, current affairs, and the media too.
Max Fisher RSci 