LGBT stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender individuals. It is an umbrella term used to describe people who identify themselves as lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders, queers, intersex, asexual, pansexual, nonbinary, etc. These terms are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings. LGBT individuals are usually rejected or marginalized by traditional family structures due to their sexual orientation and gender identities. They reinterpret concepts of love, belonging, and family differently. Their family may be made up of friends or other supportive persons instead of blood relatives. This paper explains how LGBT individuals form families and redefine the concept of love and belonging when they face exclusion from traditional structures.
Family Structure
The majority of societies define family as a nuclear unit consisting of husband, wife, children, and extended members like grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, etc.
LGBT individuals do not fit into this structure since some are single parents while others adopt kids or become surrogates for childless couples. Some live in polyamorous relationships with multiple partners without marrying them legally. In such cases, all parties consider each other family members without being related biologically. They live together, share resources, raise children, and experience everyday life together. Therefore, family does not necessarily imply having blood relations; it is more about emotional connections and mutual support.
Love
Love is another concept that LGBT individuals can redefine when faced with discrimination. Instead of seeking romantic love, they look for platonic love or friendship. Platonic love involves intimacy based on deep emotional attachment rather than physical attraction.
Two men can live together, share expenses, help each other in difficult times, but have no sexual interest. They develop a strong bond that supersedes any romantic or physical relationship. Similarly, two women may choose to remain close friends or business associates without engaging in sex. Their connection is not dependent on an exclusive romantic relationship but rather on respect, trust, and affection. This form of love is often characterized by loyalty and supportiveness.
Belonging
Belonging refers to the feeling of belongingness to a particular group or community. When traditional structures reject or exclude LGBT individuals, they create their own communities where they feel accepted and appreciated. These communities provide a sense of safety and security, allowing members to express themselves freely without fear of judgment. Members come from diverse backgrounds, but they share common experiences and struggles. They participate in social activities like parades, protests, and gatherings to promote awareness and advocate for equality. Such groups also offer mental health services and counseling for members facing challenges related to identity, relationships, and workplace discrimination. LGBT individuals find acceptance and comfort within these networks, making them feel valued regardless of their differences.
Family, love, and belonging are concepts that LGBT individuals redefine when faced with exclusion from traditional structures. Family does not necessarily mean biological relations; it is about emotional connections, while love can be platonic instead of romantic. The concept of belonging is created through supportive communities where members feel safe and accepted despite their differences.
In what ways do LGBT individuals reinterpret concepts of family, love, and belonging when traditional structures reject or marginalize them?
The LGBT community is often excluded from the notion of "traditional" family structures due to their sexual orientation and gender identity. This can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and marginalization within society. To cope with these feelings, many LGBT individuals seek out alternative forms of support, such as online communities, friends, or chosen families. These alternative structures provide a sense of belonging and acceptance that may not be available through traditional familial ties.