What is Queerness?
Queerness is an umbrella term used to describe people whose gender identities, sexual orientations, romantic attractions, and/or behaviors fall outside of what society considers "normal." It refers to individuals who do not identify as cisgender (identifying with the gender they were assigned at birth) and heterosexual (attracted to members of the opposite sex), but may also include those who are nonbinary, bisexual, pansexual, aromantic, polyamorous, etc. The word queer can be considered offensive by some because it has been historically used as a derogatory term against LGBTQ+ communities, but many within these communities have reclaimed the word as a source of pride and power.
Historical Marginalization of Queer Contributions in Science and Art
Historically, contributions from queer individuals have been ignored, erased, or denied recognition due to their sexuality, gender identity, or both. This marginalization has led to a lack of representation in mainstream culture, education, and institutions, which perpetuates the idea that queer voices are unimportant or undeserving of attention.
Recent scholarship has begun to shed light on the significant impact of queer individuals throughout history, including in science and art.
Recognizing Historically Marginalized Queer Contributions in Science
In science, queer individuals have made numerous groundbreaking discoveries, inventions, and innovations that have contributed to our understanding of the world around us.
Alan Turing was an English mathematician and computer scientist who developed the concept of artificial intelligence and helped break the German Enigma code during World War II. He was persecuted for his homosexuality and eventually committed suicide after being convicted of "gross indecency." Other notable queer scientists include Dr. William Thorpe, who pioneered research into human reproduction and genetics; Dr. Sara Josephine Baker, who developed vaccines for polio and diphtheria; and Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose work on DNA structure led to the discovery of the double helix.
Recognizing Historically Marginalized Queer Contributions in Art
In art, queer artists have created some of the most influential works of all time, yet their contributions have often gone unacknowledged or overlooked due to societal attitudes towards sexuality and gender identity. Frida Kahlo was a Mexican artist known for her surrealist paintings that explored themes of femininity, indigenous culture, and sexuality. She was also openly bisexual and had affairs with both men and women. Jean Genet was a French playwright who wrote about topics such as love, crime, and social justice. His works were banned in many countries due to their portrayals of marginalized communities, including gay people.
The Need for Change
By recognizing historically marginalized queer contributions in science and art, we can start to challenge traditional norms around what is considered acceptable within these fields. This shift would lead to more inclusive practices in education, creativity, and institutions, which could benefit everyone.
By acknowledging queer perspectives in science classrooms, students may be inspired to pursue careers in the field despite facing discrimination themselves. Similarly, recognizing queer contributions in art history courses could encourage young artists to explore their own identities through their work without fear of censorship or rejection. Institutional change could mean increased funding for LGBTQ+ initiatives and programs, leading to greater representation across industries.
A More Inclusive Future
The recognition of historically marginalized queer contributions in science and art has the potential to transform future educational, creative, and institutional practices by promoting diversity, inclusion, and acceptance. By highlighting the achievements of queer individuals throughout history, we can create a more just society that values all voices equally regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
How can the recognition of historically marginalized queer contributions in science and art transform future educational, creative, and institutional practices?
The recognition of historically marginalized queer contributions in science and art can be transformative for future educational, creative, and institutional practices by allowing more people to gain access to knowledge that has been excluded from mainstream narratives due to discrimination against their identities. Queer communities have always played an important role in advancing scientific discoveries and artistic innovations but are often not given credit for it.