Throughout history, human beings have used various forms of artistic expression to process their experiences and emotions. This includes works that explore queer trauma, which can help individuals and communities heal from past wounds. Queer trauma is defined as "the traumatic impact of systemic oppression based on gender identity or sexual orientation." It refers to the mental health issues experienced due to discrimination, violence, rejection, exclusion, and marginalization faced by LGBTQ+ people.
The representation of queer trauma through movies, books, songs, paintings, etc., has become increasingly common in recent years. These works often depict the challenges faced by those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, nonbinary, intersex, asexual, pansexual, demisexual, polysexual, or other categories within the LGBTQ+ spectrum. They provide a platform for open dialogue about topics like homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, internalized self-hatred, coming out processes, family conflicts, bullying, suicide attempts, and more. Such art can also raise awareness about the prevalence of such issues and encourage allies to become more supportive.
There are several ways in which portraying queer trauma in art and film can contribute to collective healing. Firstly, it validates feelings and experiences often considered taboo or unspeakable. By showing characters experiencing similar struggles, viewers may feel less alone and ashamed. Secondly, it encourages empathy towards others' perspectives and promotes understanding between different communities.
It helps individuals acknowledge their trauma and seek professional help if needed, reducing stigma around seeking therapy or medication.
One example is the movie "Call Me By Your Name" (2017). It follows Elio, a teenage boy from Italy, and Oliver, an American grad student spending the summer with his family. Their relationship becomes complicated when they fall in love despite knowing that Oliver will soon leave. Elio struggles with accepting himself due to cultural norms and expectations. The film explores themes of sexual identity, desire, infidelity, grief, and loss. Through watching this story unfold on screen, audiences may see themselves reflected back and learn about the complexities of queer relationships.
Depicting queer trauma through art and cinema can be a powerful tool for healing both individuals and groups affected by discrimination and violence based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
It should not replace professional mental health care nor minimize the severity of real-life traumas.
In what ways does the portrayal of queer trauma in art and film contribute to collective healing?
Queer trauma is an experience unique to LGBTQ+ individuals and their identities that can be brought about by experiences of discrimination, oppression, marginalization, microaggressions, violence, and even hate crimes. Art and film have the power to represent these traumas through stories that reflect the lived experiences of queer people, giving them a voice and space for visibility in mainstream media.