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Queerness: Identity, Symbolism, and Visibility

Queerness is what it feels like to live outside the bounds of standard gender and sexual conventions. It’s about being real with yourself when society’s trying to make you conform. For instance, queerness might be a lighthouse. A lighthouse stands tall above the storms, casting its light to guide mariners through the darkness. And queerness is also a symbol of optimism, resilience and honesty. Queerness is about being seen. You can't conceal a lighthouse, and LGBT people aren't going anywhere. They belong to a world that tries to shut them up. But visibility is not individual; visibility is collective. In queer communities, people develop networks of support in which they can feel seen and respected. And it is about direction as well. Sailors used lighthouses to guide them home, and LGBT groups often guide each other through uncertainty. Queerness is direction and belonging, in action, in art, and in chosen families. These wells of wisdom remind us that we are not alone when life’s oceans are vast. Queerness is defiance. Just like the lighthouse stands strong against oceans and storms, queerness stands strong against oceans and storms; queerness doesn’t fall down in the face of prejudice and discrimination. Life is strong, but not simple. Every act of self-expression is a light that cannot be extinguished. Queer people are a constellation of lights across the globe. Each story adds to the bigger illumination, and collectively they form a network of lights so no one has to take that journey alone. Queerness continues to exist in pride marches, in cultural expression, and in acts of bravery every day. And so queerness is the buoy that the water cannot swallow. It’s strong, it’s steady and it shines through the storm. To be queer is to opt for the light. The light that guides, protects and inspires individuals to live in truth. And it doesn't choose which ships to direct, like a lighthouse; queerness spreads its light to everyone who wants to look. It teaches us to celebrate difference, to see sincerity as a strength and to see love in all its forms as the brightest light. Queerness is also a reminder that storms are temporary, but there is light. While society may be reluctant to adjust, LGBT voices continue to push it forward. The lighthouse reminds us that to be queer isn’t about making it through, it’s about creating a community where everyone can sail free, always knowing that the beacon will shine and always welcome people home. It is a promise of belonging.” That's a sign of boldness. It’s a reminder queerness will never die bright.