Manifesto #queer

To be completely honest, I have many reservations about creating a queer manifesto because of the simple fact that a single definition of queerness can never speak entirely for an individual who identifies as queer. And, as we've seen in some of our recent readings, queerness, as a single umbrella term, is constantly changing and readjusting to those individuals who fall under its protection. With that said, I think creating a queer manifesto could be really interesting because it would create a sort-of stepping stone to be looked back on in the eyes of historians.

If I were to compose a queer manifesto, I would do my best to incorporate elements of personal narrative into definitions of queerness because I believe that although definitions are helpful, rarely do individuals fit into a single category or definition. I believe that this method would be highly beneficial to creating a relatable manifesto where individuals, both queer and non-queer could come together in order to learn about one another. By providing a history of terms and definitions, I could provide an avenue through which the evolution of queerness could be expressed.

Also, as we've seen from some of our recent readings, I would want to vitalize queer narratives from successful and well-known individuals in society today in order to create a relatable and safe environment for non-queer individuals to become enlightened about queer individuals. The fact of the matter is that regardless of one's heterosexism, Ellen Degeneres and Neil Patrick Harris will always be relatable through their success and comedy. In providing relevant examples from today's popular culture, I would hope to create a queer manifesto that simultaneously enlightens non-queers and comforts queers.

Queer Manifesto

If I were to write a queer manifesto today, it would be very important for me to make it inclusive for the entirety of the queer umbrella. The manifesto would need to include all sexual identities, such as homosexual, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, etc, as well as gender identities be them trans*, gender fluid, or any location on the gender spectrum. It is very important for the queer community to be open and available for those who need or are searching for assistance in their identity or lives. There are many instances within the queer community today of prejudice against certain queer groups (trans*phobia being a good example) that need to be addressed by the community as a whole. It does no good to fight against homophobia if it doesn't help other members of the queer community.

            This connects a lot with a topic my brother has been looking into, the way that people in the queer community can be very misogynistic and trans*phobic, and feel that because of their queer identity it is ok for them to do so (an example being Perez Hilton). It is important to look at this and address it because it can be very damaging for queer people, and coming from within their own community which should be a safe space for them.