Writing has long played an important role in advancing the rights of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Acclaimed writers such as Walt Whitman, Federico Garcia Lorca, Adrienne Rich, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, and Vivek Shraya have used their words, either overtly or implicitly, to explore their experiences as people who are not represented by the dominant systems of cisheteronormativity. Indeed, through their work, 2SLGBTQ+ writers have often challenged systemic oppression and created a sense of community for people who may face discrimination based on their gender identities or sexual orientations.
As language evolves, more and more people are recognizing the importance of using the gender pronouns that best reflect the experience of individual people, rather than forcing everyone into preconceived boxes that may not fit how they see themselves or how they relate to the world around them. Additionally, there is a growing acknowledgement that certain ways of speaking or writing about people may be harmful. Homophobic and transphobic language is increasingly being deemed unacceptable, as 2SLGBTQ+ people fight for their rights and dismantle some of the prejudiced structures and attitudes that have harmed so many. Yet numerous barriers remain, and attacks on the basic human rights of gender-diverse people continue to be a recurring topic in the news.
June has become a symbol of this ongoing struggle. Often referred to as Pride Month, it commemorates the Stonewall uprising in New York City on June 28, 1969, when 2SLGBTQ+ people rebelled against persecution they experienced at the hands of police and other local authorities. This event has grown to become a watershed moment for 2SLGBTQ+ people who see it as an iconic example of their refusal to remain silent when confronted by inequality and injustice. Writing has played an important role in communicating that history and advertising the many pride parades that occur all over the world in honour of this and other aspects of 2SLGBTQ+ culture.
As Angela Davis once wrote, “I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.” Writing can help people from all backgrounds, especially those who have been marginalized, bring about much-needed change. It enables people to articulate their challenges and aspirations, fostering understanding and building solidarity. When we are truly able to understand each others’ experiences and reflect on both the things that bring us together and the qualities that make us unique, it can help us gain a deeper appreciation of who we are and how we can work together to create a better world.
Many 2SLGBTQ+ organizations seek to share their message through written communications or support their members with programs that require grant funding. iPlume Writing is proud to serve various charities and small businesses that are led by people from these communities. Please contact us today to see how we can partner with you!
