In the modern world, where freedom of expression is considered a basic human right, it is hard to imagine how much effort has been put into suppressing nonconformist identities and their public manifestations. Queerness has historically been subjected to scrutiny, stigma, persecution, repression, denial, and criminalization. It is an umbrella term for a wide range of people who do not conform to heteronormativity - the dominant system of sex, gender, and romantic relationships that privileges cisgender men and women. The mechanisms of queer censorship have reinforced social hierarchies and moral norms based on traditional roles and power structures that often privilege the powerful, affluent, white, male population. This article will explore some of these mechanisms, focusing on sex, sexuality, eroticism, intimacy, and relationships.
Criminalization
The most common form of queer censorship was criminalization. In many societies, homosexual acts were legally banned until relatively recently. In Europe, for example, sodomy laws remained in effect until the 19th century or even later. Those found guilty could be sentenced to prison terms, fines, or even death. These laws served to marginalize and discredit sexual minorities, creating a climate of fear and mistrust. Homophobia was rampant in society, making it difficult for queer individuals to live openly and honestly.
Pathologization
Another mechanism of queer censorship was pathologizing queerness as a mental illness or perversion. Psychiatry played an important role in this process, classifying homosexuality as a disease (or "psychopathic inferiority," in Freud's words). This view made queers into deviants and criminals, while pathologizing them as sick individuals in need of treatment. It also justified various interventions, such as shock therapy or institutionalization.
Moral panics
Moral panics are another tool used by governments and the media to control queer expression. They create moral outrage around perceived threats to traditional values and norms, often exaggerating their impact and severity.
After the AIDS epidemic, there was a moral panic around gay men who were blamed for spreading the virus. The resulting backlash included measures like discrimination in employment, healthcare, and housing.
Media representation
The media has also played a role in reinforcing social hierarchies and moral norms through its portrayals of queer people. Stereotypes abound, from the flamboyant drag queen to the promiscuous gay man to the evil trans woman. These stereotypes not only limit queer self-expression but can also lead to violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Political repression
Governments have been known to use political repression to silence dissenting voices, including those of queer activists. Police raids on gay bars and clubs, arrests at pride events, and censorship of literature and art are all examples of how power structures work to maintain the status quo. This has created a climate of fear and mistrust that has made it difficult for queers to organize and assert themselves politically.
Internalized stigma
Internalized homophobia is another mechanism of queer censorship that reinforces social hierarchies and moral norms. It occurs when queer individuals adopt heteronormative attitudes and behaviors to fit in with society. This can be damaging to mental health and well-being, as it forces them to deny their own identities and desires. It also perpetuates negative stereotypes about queerness, making it harder for others to accept and support them.
Mechanisms of queer censorship have served to reinforce social hierarchies and moral norms based on traditional roles and power structures. They have criminalized, pathologized, morally panicked, and politically repressed queer expression. While some progress has been made towards greater tolerance and acceptance, there is still much work to be done to create an inclusive society where everyone can express themselves freely without fear or stigma.