The erasure of queer contributions to history is harmful because it prevents us from fully understanding how much work has gone into achieving social change for LGBTQ+ people. By ignoring or downplaying the role that queer individuals have played in shaping society's attitudes towards sexuality and gender identity, we fail to recognize their efforts to create a more inclusive world. Without this recognition, we risk perpetuating systemic oppression and exclusion, while also missing out on valuable insights into what has worked in the past.
When historians study historical figures, they typically focus on those who were heterosexual and cisgender. This means that important LGBTQ+ figures are often left out of the narrative, even when their contributions were significant.
Alan Turing, the mathematician credited with breaking the German Enigma code during World War II, was convicted of homosexual acts and subjected to chemical castration as punishment. Despite his immense scientific achievements, he is rarely discussed outside of LGBTQ+ circles, which demonstrates the erasure of his queer identity.
By overlooking the impact of queer activism, we fail to appreciate the extent to which marginalized groups can drive progress. In the US, the Stonewall Riots of 1969 sparked the modern gay rights movement and paved the way for marriage equality, but the rioters themselves were largely forgotten until recently. Similarly, the AIDS crisis in the 1980s was fought by activists who demanded better healthcare for all, not just gay men, yet their stories remain under-recognized.
By ignoring the struggles of LGBTQ+ people, we risk perpetuating harmful stereotypes about them.
Many people still believe that gay men are promiscuous or that trans women are inherently unstable because they have not been exposed to positive representations of these individuals throughout history. By recognizing the sacrifices and triumphs of LGBTQ+ communities, we can help dispel such myths and promote a more nuanced understanding of sexuality and gender.
The erasure of queer contributions from history distorts our understanding of social change and risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes. To combat this, historians must prioritize the inclusion of LGBTQ+ figures and acknowledge their role in shaping society's attitudes towards sexuality and gender identity. This will allow us to learn from past successes while also challenging current injustices. Only then can we create a truly inclusive future where everyone is recognized for their unique contributions.
How does the erasure of queer contributions from history distort our understanding of progress?
Erasing queer contributions from history has several negative consequences that affect society's understanding of progress. Firstly, it deprives people of their rightful recognition for their achievements and innovations that have shaped the world we live in today. This can lead to feelings of shame, exclusion, and self-doubt among members of the LGBTQ+ community who may struggle with their identity and belongingness.