By Xavier Prokurat
E X P L O R E
Acknowledgement:
The terms listed here have been reclaimed by queer communities in various contexts. While they are embraced by some, they may be offensive to others. Please approach this content with understanding of its complexity.
Some terms are highly charged and may have hurtful implications. Navigate this content with sensitivity.
e.g. The term "queer" — literal meaning: strange; odd (adj) or to spoil; ruin (verb) (OED) — was historically used to insult those in the LGBTQ+ community. Over time, it was reclaimed as a broad and inclusive term that empowers individuals by rejecting the need for specifying labels. However, the term can still be offensive when used by those outside of the community.
After making note of the Acknowledgment and Helpful Definitions, select pins on the map to explore 15 different instances of queer language used around the world.
When reading definitions, consider how the terms might be used by it's speakers and analyze the role each word has in it's social context. While at first some terms may seem vulgar, each one plays a vital role in languages which have been significant in fostering a safe sense of community in global queer spaces.