What is instrumentalization? Instrumentalization means using something to achieve another goal that is not related to it. It is often associated with exploitation and abuse. In politics, the term can be used to describe how politicians use marginalized groups as tools to gain support from their constituents or advance an agenda. When it comes to LGBTQ+ rights, this has been done through appropriating issues such as marriage equality, transgender rights, and HIV/AIDS awareness for political advantage.
How does this happen? Politicians may claim to be allies of queer people while actually opposing policies that would benefit them. They may make promises during campaigns but fail to deliver afterwards. Sometimes they even create laws against discrimination but then turn around and refuse to enforce them. This happens because there are benefits to being seen as progressive and socially liberal; it makes politicians look good in the eyes of voters who care about these issues. But at what cost?
One risk of instrumentalizing queer rights is that it undermines genuine support for the community. By only caring about votes, politicians may ignore real problems faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
If a politician supports same-sex marriage but doesn't provide access to healthcare for transgender people, they are still leaving many members of the community vulnerable. Another risk is that it reinforces negative stereotypes about queer people. If politicians only talk about LGBTQ+ issues when running for office, they reinforce the idea that queerness is only worth paying attention to during election season.
Instrumentalization hurts both those who need help and those who seek legitimacy through allyship. It creates distrust between marginalized groups and their supposed advocates. Instead of using LGBTQ+ rights as a tool, we should focus on creating meaningful change through dialogue and action. We can work together to address systemic inequality and improve the lives of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
What are the moral risks of instrumentalizing queer rights for political legitimacy?
Queer rights have become an increasingly politicized issue with many governments using them as a tool for political legitimacy. While this can be beneficial for the LGBTQ+ community, there are also some moral risks associated with it. One risk is that the focus on rights may overshadow other issues such as discrimination and social exclusion, which may lead to the marginalization of vulnerable groups within the community.