Can queer liberation exist without simultaneously dismantling patriarchy?
In many ways, yes. Queer liberation can exist without dismantling patriarchy because it is possible to separate gender identity from sex. Gender identity is an individual's sense of self as male, female, agender, nonbinary, or another gender identity. Sex refers to biological characteristics such as chromosomes, hormones, internal reproductive organs, genitals, secondary sex characteristics, and physical features. The distinction between gender identity and sex allows for individuals to identify as one gender but have a different sex, which may allow them to live comfortably in society despite existing systems of patriarchy that privilege cisgender people who identify with their assigned sex at birth.
The reality is more complicated than this. Some trans women experience discrimination due to their gender expression, which might align with typical feminine behavior and appearance, and some trans men face discrimination related to their masculine appearance and actions. In addition, there are intersecting oppressions based on race, class, ability, nationality, age, religion, and other factors. These can all contribute to experiences of marginalization that complicate gender and sexuality.
While it is theoretically possible to separate gender identity and sex, not everyone identifies with binary gender categories, and many people do not feel comfortable with the labels they are given by others. This means that even if we accept that queer liberation does not require simultaneous dismantling of patriarchy, there are still obstacles to be overcome.
The lack of awareness about the intersectional nature of oppression can lead to allyship that is not inclusive enough and creates new forms of oppression within queer communities.
While it is true that gender identity and sex can be separated, it's essential to recognize the complexities involved in doing so and how these distinctions interact with other social structures such as race, class, and power dynamics.
Recognizing the need for nuance and complexity allows us to better understand the ways in which we can support our community members without reinforcing harmful systems of oppression.
Can queer liberation exist without simultaneously dismantling patriarchy?
Queer liberation can potentially occur without addressing the issue of patriarchy, but it would be limited in its scope and effectiveness. Patriarchal oppression has historically been intertwined with heteronormative oppression, which has systematically excluded and subjugated those who do not conform to traditional gender roles and sexual identities.