The term "emotional labor" refers to the effort that an individual expends when they are asked to display positive feelings toward another person. This concept has been applied more recently to discussions surrounding gender roles and identity politics. Queer individuals face unique challenges in navigating society due to stigmas associated with non-normative identities. They often must contend with discrimination, bigotry, ignorance, and lack of understanding from those around them. As such, queer people must engage in emotional labor to educate others about their existence and rights.
Queer folks may be required to explain why certain behaviors or attitudes are problematic while also attempting to maintain positive relationships with peers who hold antiquated beliefs about LGBTQ+ issues. In addition, there is pressure for queer people to perform femininity or masculinity according to societal expectations even though these norms do not always align with their own identities.
Emotional Labor as Educators
One way in which queer individuals experience emotional labor is through teaching and education. Queer educators have historically faced obstacles within educational institutions due to systemic prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals. These barriers include being outed by students or colleagues without consent and facing resistance from administrators who refuse to acknowledge or support queer faculty members. Many queer teachers feel like they cannot fully express themselves professionally because of this environment.
Some educators choose to take on the task of educating others about queer topics despite these difficulties. By doing so, they can help promote greater awareness and acceptance of diverse identities among students and staff alike.
Difficulty of Reconciling Opposing Identities
Another aspect of emotional labor that applies specifically to queer individuals is the difficulty of reconciling opposing identities.
A person who identifies as both transgender and cisgender may find it challenging to navigate social interactions when interacting with friends, family, coworkers, or acquaintances. This can be especially difficult if those around them hold negative views regarding non-binary gender identities. The individual must balance their desire to express themselves authentically while also managing potentially hostile reactions from those who are uncomfortable with their identity. They may feel pressure to conform to traditional gender roles and expectations even though these do not align with their true selves. In order to avoid conflict or ostracism, many people hide aspects of their gender expression until they feel safe enough to share more openly.
What emotional labor is required of queer people in educating others about their existence and rights?
Queer individuals may experience emotional labor when it comes to educating others about their existence and rights because they need to deal with microaggressions and discrimination from non-LGBTQ+ individuals who do not understand their identities and experiences. This can be exhausting and frustrating for them, leading to feelings of anger, sadness, resentment, and even self-doubt.