Can global queer solidarity exist without reproducing imperial hierarchies? This question has been at the center of debates within the LGBTQ+ community for decades. On one hand, many argue that global queer solidarity is essential to achieving equality and acceptance for all members of the community.
Others contend that this solidarity can only be achieved if it does not reinforce existing power structures such as colonialism, racism, and heteropatriarchy. In order to answer this question, it is important to understand the history of queer activism and its relationship to various forms of oppression.
One way in which global queer solidarity has historically been organized is through international conferences and events. These gatherings bring together activists from different parts of the world to discuss issues affecting their communities.
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) World Conference has been held annually since 1986, providing a platform for advocacy, networking, and strategizing among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex (LGBTI) organizations from around the globe. While these gatherings have certainly raised awareness about LGBTI rights, they also reflect the unequal distribution of power between wealthy nations and those who are marginalized or colonized.
Another way in which global queer solidarity has been organized is through alliances with other social movements.
Many LGBTI activists have joined forces with feminist, anti-racist, and environmental movements to challenge intersecting forms of oppression. This approach has led to successful coalitions and campaigns, but it has also raised questions about who gets to lead and benefit from these collaborations. Some argue that white, cisgender people from developed countries continue to dominate these movements, leaving out marginalized groups within the LGBTI community as well as others who experience multiple forms of oppression.
Despite these challenges, there are some examples of successful global queer solidarity efforts that do not reproduce imperial hierarchies. One such example is the Declaration of Queer Solidarity, adopted by hundreds of activists at the 2017 World Social Forum in Montreal. The declaration acknowledges the impact of colonialism on LGBTI communities and calls for grassroots organizing that centers indigenous peoples, people of color, and other marginalized populations. It also emphasizes solidarity across issues, recognizing that struggles against racism, capitalism, and patriarchy are intrinsically linked to those against homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, and intersexism.
Achieving global queer solidarity without reproducing imperial hierarchies requires a critical examination of power dynamics and an intentional effort to center the voices and experiences of those who are most marginalized. While this may be difficult, it is necessary if we want to create a more just world where all people can live freely and authentically.
Can global queer solidarity exist without reproducing imperial hierarchies?
Solidarity is defined as "a sense of unity or togetherness" with others and refers to a social relationship that arises when individuals identify themselves with a common cause. It can be understood as an expression of a collective identity based on shared experiences, beliefs, and values. Queer solidarity, therefore, refers to the way people who identify as queer come together and support each other's rights and interests.