Queer memory is the collective remembrance of LGBTQ+ identities, stories, experiences, traditions, and histories. This memory has been systematically suppressed and hidden through erasure, repression, and marginalization. Erasure occurs when queer history is actively forgotten or ignored, such as when important figures like Harvey Milk are left out of textbooks. Repression occurs when queerness is pathologized and oppressed, such as through conversion therapy. Marginalization occurs when queer people are pushed to the edges of society, excluded from institutions, and discriminated against, such as through marriage bans or transphobic policies.
The erasure of queer memory becomes embodied through physical and emotional trauma. The absence of positive role models can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and self-loathing. Queer youth who do not see their identity reflected in the world around them may internalize homophobia and transphobia, leading to low self-esteem, depression, and even suicide. Internalizing this memory also leads to negative coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or promiscuity.
Transmission of queer memory can occur through language, art, literature, music, film, social media, activism, mentorship, and community spaces. These mediums can serve as platforms for sharing personal narratives, celebrating queer culture, and challenging heteronormative norms.
Transmission is often limited by censorship, gatekeeping, and tokenization.
LGBTQ+ characters may be oversexualized or stereotyped in mainstream media.
Recovery of queer memory requires individual and communal praxis. Individuals must challenge internalized shame and stigma, seek supportive communities, and prioritize self-care. Communities must center intersectionality, create safe spaces, and advocate for justice and equity. This could include protest marches, political campaigns, allyship with other marginalized groups, and intergenerational mentoring. Queer elders can share stories, wisdom, and lessons learned while passing down traditions and values.
Erasing queer memory has detrimental consequences for individuals and society as a whole. Recovering this memory requires collective action, consciousness-raising, and critical thinking. By centering the experiences of queer people, we can build solidarity, resilience, and hope for a more just future.
In what ways does the erasure of queer memory become embodied, transmitted, and internalized, and how could recovery occur as both individual and communal praxis?
The erasure of queer memory becomes embodied when it is forgotten or hidden from the consciousness of individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+ community. This process can be triggered by various factors such as stigma, discrimination, or even self-denial due to feelings of shame or fear of rejection.