Since the 1890s, the term queer was initially used as a derogatory slur against gay men until it was later reclaimed by the LGBTQ+ community as a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity. Today, it’s used non-offensively as an inclusive term that embraces a wide spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities within the community.

In this episode, we're taking a look into the etymology of the word queer, tracing its origins as a slur, and examining the pivotal moments and motivations behind the LGBTQ+ community's powerful reclamation of the term.

Related Episodes:

• Listen to Bonus 12. Spooky Storytime
• Listen to Episode 03. Surviving Another Pandemic
• Listen to Episode 23. Let's Talk About the F Word
• Listen to Episode 51. ACT UP: Silence = Death

Additional Resources:

• Queer (Etymology)
• Queer (Definition)
• How the Word ‘Queer’ was Adopted by the LGBTQ Community
• Marquess of Queensberry
• ‘Queer’ History: A History of Queer
• Oscar Wilde Trial
• Reviled, Reclaimed and Respected: The History of the Word 'Queer'
• Come Out!

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