My Big, Gay Blog Post

My Relationship with the Word Queer

I identify as queer. That being said, it’s a word that I have a love/hate relationship with- just like I do with chocolate, my cat Burnie, and expensive makeup. I use the word queer mainly because I don’t feel comfortable yet telling people that in my heart of hearts I identify as a unicorn kitty. Being queer is very much a part of me now, but I usually get mixed reactions when I describe myself in that way. Most people say something like:

But isn’t Queer an insult?

Well, not necessarily. It has been used as a pejorative word to describe LGBTQ people. However, this word is slowly being taken back by those who identify as Queer. Any word can be negative or positive, depending on the intent of the person who is saying it and the context of which it is said. That’s part of what makes language so fun.

Let me explain.

Via RainbowUnicornKitty

National Coming Out Day at UT Tyler!

Friday- October 11, 2013
11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  

Location: On Harvey Deck between the lakes at UT Tyler

NationalComing Out Day will be a really important day for everyone in the LGBTQIA (affectionately known as alphabet soup, break-down found here) community. For me, NCOD brings back fond memories of those awkward conversations with my parents and the moment I was finally ready to be OUT on Facebook. I know. Public announcements are kinda my thing. 

Oh by the way, I'm queer.
Via Taro Gold

So please, come show some love to anyone and everyone! There will be festivities, brought to you by the Gay Straight Alliance here at The University of Texas at Tyler. 

There will be a photo booth with a ton of fun props to use. We will have a dry erase board, so you can write messages of affirmation to little coming-out-newbies or tell us why coming out is important to you. 

We have invited Airyka Adonis to join us as well! She is a fabulous entertainer, so come get your picture taken with this foxy queen and meet and great new people!

Introducing... Airyka Adonis!

The GSA will also be giving away leis with positive affirmations attached to them. We want this Friday to be full of fun, quirky and uplifting vibes. Lastly, THERE WILL BE SKITTLES.

You know what to do.
Via Deviant Art

I know you guys are all just as excited as I am. Coming out is hard, and one thing that makes it easier is knowing that you have a group of people who love and accept you, no matter what. That’s why National Coming Out day isn't just for the Queer population- it’s for everyone who has a heart. 

I'M KIDDING, it’s for those who want to show support. So come visit us ! 

PS: If you are trying to think of a good way to come out to parents or friends, here are a few genius ideas other people used to announce their queerness. Get creative, and be confident in yourself. You've got this.

Via Adventures In Gay