Historical Memory of Repression
The historical memory of repression can be defined as the collective memories and cultural values that societies hold about past events and experiences of persecution and violence against people who identify as LGBTQ+. This memory can often persist for generations, shaping attitudes and beliefs about gender and sexuality in ways that are harmful to LGBTQ+ individuals. In this essay, I will discuss how historical memory of repression has contributed to persistent homophobia and resistance to queer inclusion.
History of Repression
In many cultures around the world, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced discrimination, harassment, and even violence due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
During the medieval period in Europe, homosexuality was considered a sin punishable by death in some countries. The witch trials in Salem, Massachusetts, in the early modern era resulted in the execution of hundreds of women accused of being witches, including those who were believed to engage in same-sex relationships. Even in modern times, homophobic sentiments remain strong in some parts of the world, such as Uganda where laws criminalizing homosexuality continue to exist.
Effects on Attitudes
Despite significant progress in legal rights and social acceptance, research suggests that historical memory of repression continues to shape contemporary attitudes toward LGBTQ+ individuals. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that individuals who lived through periods of heightened anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment reported more negative attitudes towards gay men than those who did not. Another study conducted among high school students found that exposure to a film featuring historical instances of anti-queer violence increased participants' support for restrictive policies against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Impact on Queer Inclusion
The historical memory of repression can also create barriers to LGBTQ+ inclusion in institutions such as schools, workplaces, and religious organizations. Research shows that many people hold stereotypes about queer individuals, including beliefs that they are promiscuous, mentally ill, and lack moral character. These stereotypes can lead to discrimination and exclusion in hiring practices, educational curriculum, and even healthcare settings. Moreover, some religions still teach that homosexuality is a sin or abomination, contributing to stigma and rejection within faith communities.
Historical memory of repression has played an important role in shaping contemporary attitudes and behaviors related to gender and sexuality. While some countries have made strides towards greater tolerance and acceptance, others remain deeply entrenched in heteronormative values and beliefs. It is essential for individuals and institutions to acknowledge and challenge these biases in order to promote equity and inclusivity for all members of society. By doing so, we can move closer towards a world where everyone feels safe and empowered to be their authentic selves without fear of judgment or persecution.
Can historical memory of repression explain persistent homophobia and resistance to queer inclusion?
Historical memory of repression can play a significant role in explaining persisting discrimination against members of LGBTQ+ communities. Repression is the act of deliberately denying individuals their civil rights based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Historically, various countries have enacted laws that criminalized same-sex relationships between consenting adults.