The notion of "coming out" or being "out" has been central to LGBTQ+ visibility since the Stonewall riots in New York City in 1969. Being visible is generally understood to be a necessary condition for fighting discrimination and increasing acceptance within society.
There are social costs and psychological burdens that come along with it. This essay will explore some of these costs and burdens, while also acknowledging that not everyone experiences them in the same way.
One of the most significant costs associated with visibility is the potential loss of employment or housing due to openness about one's sexual orientation or gender identity. While many countries have anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ people from such actions, discrimination remains a reality in many workplaces and other institutions. Coming out can put someone at risk of losing their job or their home if they live in an area where prejudice runs deep. In addition, some jobs require public appearances and media attention, making coming out even more risky.
Celebrities who come out may face backlash from conservative fans who no longer support them financially or socially.
Another cost of visibility is increased risk of physical violence. In countries without strong protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, simply identifying as queer can lead to harassment, assault, and even murder. Transgender women are particularly vulnerable to attacks due to the perception that they are "deceiving" others by presenting themselves as female when they were born male. Queer people living in areas with low levels of tolerance must weigh the benefits of visibility against the possibility of physical harm.
Visibility also carries emotional costs. Many LGBTQ+ individuals experience anxiety and depression related to coming out, especially if they do so repeatedly. Repeatedly explaining oneself to family members, coworkers, or acquaintances can be exhausting and mentally taxing.
Being visible means facing scrutiny and judgment from those around you. This can take a toll on mental health over time, leading to burnout and isolation.
Despite these challenges, being visible is often seen as a necessary step towards equality. It helps normalize queerness within society, allowing people to see that there are diverse sexualities and genders beyond cis-heteronormativity. Visibility allows us to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about queer people and educate others about our experiences.
It should not be taken lightly - it requires careful consideration and a willingness to accept potential risks and consequences.
What are the social costs and psychological burdens associated with the expectation of “being visible” in LGBT advocacy?
Society still associates masculinity and femininity with heterosexuality and heteronormativity. This leads many individuals who do not identify as such to feel that they must be openly "out" about their sexuality and gender identity, which can lead to increased scrutiny and judgment from others.