On Queer Identity
A conversation on the evolution and concept of queerness hosted by UK-based LGBT+ Organisation Out For Good - encompassing LGBTQIA+ linguistics, politics, and identities
BY JC Candanedo
February 24, 2021
February is LGBT+ History Month in the UK,
and this year I hosted on behalf of Out For Good an intergenerational community conversation and story-sharing space about what being queer means to us as individuals and how we fit as LGBTQ+ people in our societies.
Out For Good is a charitable organisation bringing together LGBT+ people across the UK to celebrate LGBTQ+ visibility and work to break down barriers by making a difference in our communities.
The panelists shared what the word Queer meant to them and how has their identity been shaped throughout their lives. They also spoke about their coming-out experiences and how long it took them to feel comfortable in their own skin.
It was interesting to learn about the most pressing issues in the community at the time when each of them came out as they belonged to very different generations. Prompting the question: Is being openly queer still an act of defiance in today’s world?
Finally, we spoke about how they imagined the future of the LGBTQ+ Community and what would they tell their younger or older selves.
Attendees said that hearing so many stories from different age groups were refreshing because there aren't many environments where inter-generational conversations like that happen. Panelists felt that it was very special and that it felt safe, explorative, and warm. One person said that It was a great success and very empowering.
On behalf of Out For Good, thank you so much to everyone who was able to join in. I learned so much from this conversation and I hope you did as well. Thank you also to the unbelievable panel. I’m very grateful for the time they gave us and for sharing all their beautiful anecdotes and thoughts.
If you weren't able to tune in, you can watch the replay below.
The conversation took place via zoom on Sunday, February 21st, at 6 p.m. London time.
To learn more about Out for Good visit their website or follow their Instagram.
To find out more about JC’s creative work, you can visit his Patreon at patreon.com/jccandanedo.