In contemporary society, LGBTQ individuals are often denied access to various institutions, such as religious organizations, government offices, and educational establishments. This can result in feelings of isolation, exclusion, and disconnection from mainstream culture.
LGBTQ individuals have developed alternative means of finding community and meaning outside these conventional channels.
Online spaces like social media platforms, dating apps, and support groups provide opportunities for connection and empowerment. Similarly, queer communities emerging around artistic pursuits, activist movements, and subcultures offer new ways to find belonging and validation. These approaches can be described as cultivating sacred belonging, which refers to the creation of a sense of purpose and identity through shared values and experiences beyond institutional recognition or approval. This essay will examine how LGBTQ individuals develop this kind of sacred belonging, drawing upon examples from academic research and personal narratives.
It is important to note that the lack of institutional validation does not necessarily preclude LGBTQ individuals from finding sources of belonging. Rather, they may turn to communities and practices that resonate more deeply with their identities. According to sociologist Arlene Stein, many LGBTQ people seek out "counterpublics" - groups or activities that challenge dominant norms and offer alternatives to mainstream culture. This can involve joining political organizations, attending Pride marches, or participating in drag shows. By engaging in counterpublics, LGBTQ individuals can claim ownership over their identities, create spaces where they are visible and valued, and resist oppressive structures.
Another way that LGBTQ individuals cultivate sacred belonging is by exploring spirituality and religion outside traditional institutions. This involves reimagining religious beliefs and rituals to fit queer identities, forming independent congregations, or creating entirely new faiths.
Some transgender people have turned to shamanism or paganism to affirm their gender identities, while others have developed inclusive interpretations of Christianity or Judaism. These efforts emphasize the power of individual experience and creativity in constructing meaningful belief systems.
Sexual expression itself can serve as a form of sacred belonging for LGBTQ individuals. Queer sex can be seen as an act of resistance against heteronormative expectations and a celebration of diverse desires. This can include kink, polyamory, or other non-monogamous relationships, which allow participants to explore different kinds of intimacy and pleasure. Some scholars argue that these practices provide liberatory potential and serve as sites of empowerment, especially for marginalized communities who may lack access to other forms of recognition.
It is worth noting that sacred belonging does not necessarily require explicit validation from others. Rather, it emerges from within oneself through personal experiences and connections with like-minded individuals. As sociologist Mary Bernstein writes, "Sacred belonging has nothing to do with institutional approval." It involves recognizing one's own identity and finding community with those who share similar values and experiences. This can take place in everyday interactions, such as sharing stories, offering support, and engaging in activism together. By doing so, LGBTQ individuals can create spaces where they feel valued and empowered, regardless of external circumstances.
This essay has explored how LGBTQ individuals cultivate sacred belonging absent institutional validation or recognition. Through counterpublics, alternative spirituality, queer sexuality, and self-recognition, they find meaning and connection beyond mainstream culture. These approaches challenge dominant norms and open up new possibilities for identity and belonging. By embracing these alternatives, LGBTQ individuals can affirm their identities, resist oppression, and build vibrant communities that embrace diversity.
In what ways do LGBTQ individuals cultivate sacred belonging absent institutional validation or recognition?
LGBTQ individuals can cultivate a sense of sacred belonging by establishing their identity as an intrinsic aspect of their humanity, rather than something that is dependent on external validation or recognition. This involves recognizing their unique experiences and perspectives, embracing diversity within the community, and actively participating in advocacy efforts to create change for future generations.