Society has come a long way in accepting LGBTQ+ lifestyles, so why does it feel like censorship is becoming more restrictive? I would love to hear your take Hannah on why in some ways we have moved forward, but seem to be going backwards in others? - Allen
Hello Allen, thank you for the question!
I think the key words here are FEELS and SEEMS.
I can't deny that there are people in the world who pray everyday that queer people (whether you are non-binary, a crossdresser, bisexual, or really anything beyond straight/cisgender) would go away or at least go back into the closet. These people tend to be LOUD and ANGRY. It's normal to pay attention to the loud person, whether they are online or screaming at the cashier at the grocery store. They are demanding attention and are likely getting it... but not necessarily because they are right, but because they are so loud that you can't help but acknowledge them.
The loud people are not always speaking for the majority of people. They are just louder than everyone else. They try to shape the conversation about issues that they feel (and hate) strongly about. They attempt to change the narrative about others and demonize people that they don't like. They amplify lies and falsehoods and double down when asked for proof. Volume got them to this point and they will continue to utilize what has worked so far.
It's easy to think that the whole world hates people like us, but I remind myself that this feeling is triggered by a small minority of people that are loud, not triggered by the majority of people. It can also be disheartening to see so many laws being passed that impact the queer community. I have no intention of transitioning or taking estrogen, but my heart breaks when a law is passed that limits (or erases) gender-affirming care. These laws are meant to tell the queer community that they want us to, well, not be who we are. Reduced access to gender affirming care does not impact me personally, but it's a reminder that if some people had their way, I would never be allowed to wear panties ever again.
If you are feeling discouraged by the world, start looking for the good. One thing that encourages me is seeing the younger generation openly and loudly identifying as queer and/or non-binary. I am encouraged by people my age who are supportive of their kids and their evolving gender identity. I am encouraged by how many resources are available that were never an option ten years ago. I am encouraged by designers such as XDress who design clothes for people like me.
Acceptance and shifting a planet's thinking takes time and is messy and nonlinear. It's not a straight line. It will have setbacks. It will have stumbles. But we are slowly getting there.
Love, Hannah
The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of XDress
8 comments
Isn’t this the Western way, we hate, hurt, despise. Until there’s a sudden feel good scenario. Or the cute and beautiful people realise an Ostracised group of society have something they want. So LGBTQ+ become cool and are given plenty of time. Until they are just society’s norm. Now it’s Trans, until they aren’t popular or they make it bug themselves. Then it is rip them apart… only an opinion.
I know some places are better than others but uphere I’m to scare of the backlash to go out Dressed and feeling comfortable in myself is restricted to when I’m alone in the house plus the way is going now it seems everywhere there is more hostility to people who are different weather it’s lgbtq+, religion, or colour. It is such a shame we can’t tolerate our differences
First of I am 78 years old been a transvestite from when I was 10 years old being in a family of 3 girls and 2 sons I used to borrow some of the girls under clothes I did not come out till I got married at 21 years old and then only because my wife found some of my knickers but god bless her she accepted who I was and even bought me ladies clothes and still does to this day 58 lovely years married the reason I am writing all of this as I object to all that is going on with the LBG I do not want it thrown at me every day how we must all accept what they are, by all means be what you are but do not come up to me and tell me that I must accept what you are and if I disagree at your attitude then tell me I am a racist and homophobic.
thank you David (Dawn)