Queerness has always been linked to death, from its origins in ancient Greek mythology to modern-day LGBTQ+ culture. It is no surprise that many queer people have an existentialist view of life, recognizing their own fragility and impermanence. This perspective can lead to a deeper engagement with mortality and a sense of urgency about making the most out of each moment.
What is the impact of this ethical understanding on the way we approach legacy? How can it affect our choices regarding finances, estate planning, and charitable giving? In this article, I will explore the ways in which queer engagement with mortality can deepen our ethical understanding of legacy and finitude, providing practical tips for how to make the most of our lives while preparing for the future.
The Fragility of Life and Death Anxiety
As queer individuals, we are acutely aware of our vulnerability and mortality. We often face discrimination, violence, and exclusion due to our sexuality or gender identity, leading to feelings of isolation and fear. This can manifest as anxiety around death, whether it's related to health concerns, social stigma, or legal obstacles. Many queer people live with the knowledge that their loved ones may not be able to provide them with adequate support if something were to happen to them. This sense of precariousness can lead to a greater emphasis on living a fulfilling life, but also to a heightened awareness of the end. As queer author Audre Lorde put it, "Our dead are never really gone."
Legacy: What Do We Leave Behind?
For many queer individuals, creating a lasting legacy is an important part of their work. They want to ensure that their contributions to society and culture will continue to be felt long after they are gone. Whether through art, activism, or advocacy, queer people have a unique perspective on the world that should be shared and celebrated. Acknowledging our own mortality can help us focus on creating a meaningful impact during our time on earth. It reminds us that we only have so much time to leave our mark, and encourages us to prioritize what matters most.
Estate Planning for Queers
Estates are another area where queerness comes into play. Traditional estate planning often assumes heteronormativity, which can create complications for LGBTQ+ families. Without proper legal protections in place, partners may not be recognized as family members after one person dies. This means that assets may go to biological relatives instead of chosen families. To avoid this, queer couples need to take extra steps to ensure that their wishes are respected. This includes drafting wills, power-of-attorney documents, and healthcare directives, all of which must be updated regularly. Having these conversations with loved ones can also deepen our understanding of finitude and encourage responsible financial planning.
Giving Back: Charitable Donations and Ethical Investments
We can use our engagement with mortality to inform ethical investment choices. Many queer people believe in giving back to communities that have supported them, whether it's through charitable donations or socially responsible business practices. By supporting organizations that align with our values, we can make a positive impact beyond our immediate circle of friends and family.
Many queer individuals choose to invest in companies with good labor practices and sustainable policies. Others choose to give to causes that fight against homophobia and transphobia. All of these actions require thoughtful consideration and a commitment to making the world a better place, even if we won't always see the results ourselves.
Engaging with mortality can help us prioritize what matters most in life while creating a lasting legacy. Queer individuals often face unique challenges related to estate planning and financial security, but they can also use those challenges to create meaningful change. Whether it's by advocating for legal protections or making ethical investments, queers have an opportunity to leave behind a positive impact on the world around them.
How can queer engagement with mortality deepen ethical understanding of legacy and finitude?
Queerness is often defined as a state of being that transcends traditional gender roles and sexual orientations, making it an ideal platform for exploring themes related to mortality and legacy. Through this lens, one may begin to understand their place within a broader context of humanity's existence, and how their actions contribute to the collective narrative of life on Earth.