There has been an increasing awareness of the interconnectedness between queer identities and neoliberalism. Neoliberalism is characterized by market-based approaches to social issues that emphasize individual responsibility and self-sufficiency rather than collective action. This approach has impacted queer communities in various ways, including through the commodification of identity, the reduction of politics to consumer choices, and the erosion of community solidarity. As such, many queer activists have questioned how global movements can resist this co-optation while still staying true to their local roots.
One way to do so is through intersectionality, which recognizes that oppressions are interrelated and cannot be addressed independently from one another. By drawing connections between queerness and other forms of marginalization, such as racism or classism, activists can challenge the ways in which these systems reinforce each other.
Queer Women of Color have highlighted how both racism and homophobia operate within institutions like education and healthcare, and have developed strategies for addressing them simultaneously. Another way to resist neoliberal co-optation is through grassroots organizing, which centers marginalized voices and prioritizes collective action over individual gain. Examples include Trans Lifeline and the Black Lives Matter movement, which have mobilized communities around shared struggles against state violence.
Navigating this balance between global and local can be challenging, especially when international organizations seek to capitalize on queer identities for profit or visibility. Activists must ensure that their work remains grounded in the needs and experiences of those most affected by oppression, and avoid falling into the trap of tokenism or appropriation. They can do this by partnering with local groups and prioritizing community-led initiatives, rather than relying solely on outside funding or support.
They should recognize that not all countries or cultures share the same understanding of gender and sexuality, and respect the diverse ways in which individuals express themselves.
While it may seem counterintuitive to pursue a global agenda while remaining rooted locally, it is essential to resist neoliberal co-optation and build solidarity across movements. By centering intersectionality, grassroots organizing, and cultural sensitivity, activists can create inclusive spaces that empower marginalized communities and challenge systemic injustice.
In what ways can global queer activism resist neoliberal co-optation while remaining locally grounded?
Global queer activists have been facing challenges of neoliberal co-option for decades. While some organizations have managed to remain steadfastly committed to grassroots politics, others have succumbed to commercialization and corporatization. In order to resist this trend, queer activists must engage with local communities and develop strategies that are both globally relevant and locally specific.