Queer history has been largely ignored by mainstream academia, media, and society at large for centuries. It is only within the last few decades that queer studies have emerged as an academic field, and even then, it remains marginalized and underrepresented. This erasure of queer histories has profound consequences for contemporary activism and cultural production. By failing to understand and acknowledge the struggles and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history, we are unable to fully appreciate the complexity of their experiences, identities, and struggles. Without this understanding, it becomes difficult to create meaningful and effective strategies for advocating for queer rights today.
In order to understand the impact of erasing queer histories, we must first consider why they were erased in the first place. Throughout much of history, queerness was seen as deviant and immoral, and those who identified as such were often persecuted, jailed, or killed. As a result, many queer people had to live in secret, leaving little evidence of their lives behind.
Homophobic laws and attitudes made it illegal to openly express one's sexuality or gender identity. This led to the destruction or hiding of documents, photos, and other artifacts that could serve as evidence of queer existence.
The erasure of queer histories also serves to reinforce heteronormativity, which privileges cisgender, monogamous, and heterosexual relationships as the norm. When non-normative forms of intimacy are not recognized or valued, it can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and despair among queer individuals. It also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about queer people, such as the idea that they are promiscuous or sexually reckless. These stereotypes can have serious consequences for queer people's mental health and safety.
The absence of queer histories from mainstream narratives means that contemporary artists and activists lack role models and inspiration from past generations. Without knowing about the struggles and accomplishments of LGBTQ+ individuals before them, it becomes difficult to envision what is possible and what kind of change is needed. The lack of representation also makes it harder for queer youth to see themselves reflected in society and feel validated and accepted.
The erasure of queer histories limits our understanding of how social movements have evolved over time. By failing to understand the roots of today's LGBTQ+ rights movement, we risk repeating mistakes of the past and missing opportunities for innovation and progress.
Without acknowledging the influence of the Stonewall riots on later protests and marches, we may miss important lessons about strategizing, organizing, and mobilization.
To counteract the effects of erasing queer histories, it is crucial to invest in research and scholarship that uncovers these stories. This includes archival work, oral history projects, and community-based initiatives that document and preserve queer experiences.
It is essential to incorporate queer perspectives into broader historical narratives, so that non-normative forms of intimacy, identity, and expression are seen as valuable contributions to human culture.
It is critical to create spaces for queer creativity and self-expression, both in cultural production and advocacy efforts. By doing so, we can challenge heteronormative assumptions, promote greater inclusion, and advance queer liberation.
What are the consequences of erasing queer histories for contemporary activism and cultural production?
The erasure of queer history has several negative implications for current queer activism and cultural production. One of these is that it denies the existence of historical figures who were important to the development of queer identity and culture. This can lead to a sense of disconnection from one's roots and community, which can have an adverse effect on mental health and wellbeing.