There are many ways to understand how queer communities resist homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, heteronormativity, cissexism, racism, misogyny, ableism, ageism, fatphobia, xenophobia, and other forms of oppression through historical discourse, storytelling, ritual, artistic creation, activist strategies, and more. This article will focus on one form of resistance that is often underappreciated but highly effective - collective memory. Collective memory refers to shared memories among members of a group or community, which can be passed down from generation to generation, used for self-definition, identity construction, cultural preservation, and social cohesion.
In terms of queer communities, collective memory serves as a powerful tool for psychological resistance against systemic oppressions because it provides an alternative narrative to mainstream stories that cast LGBTQIA+ people as deviant, abnormal, immoral, sick, sinful, disordered, dangerous, evil, unnatural, mentally ill, etc. By remembering their own histories and experiences, queer folks validate their identities, celebrate their strengths and resilience, assert their humanity and dignity, reclaim their bodies and selves, and reaffirm their place in society.
Collective memory can also promote continuity by transmitting knowledge about queer culture, history, politics, struggles, triumphs, heroes, allies, enemies, and practices from one generation to another. It helps maintain connections between queer elders and youth, who may have different life circumstances and priorities, while creating opportunities for newcomers to learn about their heritage and find their place within the community.
Collective memory allows marginalized groups to preserve vital information about healthcare access, legal rights, support networks, safe spaces, and other resources essential for survival and growth.
Collective memory is not without its challenges. Some queer individuals and families may feel pressure to conform to heteronormativity and hide parts of their past out of fear or shame. Others may struggle with trauma, loss, mental illness, addiction, or other issues that interfere with memory-making and retention. Still others may face discrimination, erasure, or violence that prevents them from participating fully in community life and contributing to collective memory.
Some forms of collective memory can be overly idealistic or romanticized, ignoring oppression and suffering in favor of a rosy view of queer liberation.
To address these challenges, queer communities must continually examine and critique their own histories and practices, seeking to create more inclusive, honest, and effective ways to preserve their memories. This includes recognizing diversity within LGBTQIA+ identities, experiences, and needs; centering vulnerable voices and perspectives; promoting healing, recovery, and resilience; working towards social justice and intersectionality; and engaging in political activism at individual, local, national, and international levels. Only by doing so will we truly honor our collective memories, strengthen our resistance, and build a better future for all queer people.
How do queer communities use collective memory as a form of psychological resistance and continuity?
Queer communities have utilized various forms of collective memories such as LGBTQ+ pride celebrations, LGBTQ+ history month, and community archives to resist oppression and uphold their sense of identity and purpose.