Queer

An umbrella term for sexual and/or gender identities that are not exclusively heterosexual or cisgender. Originally a slur; reclaimed by LGBTQ+ communities from the 1980s-1990s onward. Should only be used for someone if they use it for themselves.

Origin uncertain; possibly from German quer (crosswise, oblique). Documented in English from 1508 meaning "strange or peculiar." Used as a slur against gay and gender-nonconforming people from the late 19th century.

• Used as a derogatory slur throughout the 20th century
• 1990 - Queer Nation founded; adopted the slogan "We're Here, We're Queer, Get Used to It"
• 1990s - "Queer theory" developed in academia, taking an anti-assimilationist stance
• The reclamation was generational: younger LGBTQ+ people broadly embrace it; some older people for whom it was a weapon do not

• "Queer is always a slur and should never be used." For many LGBTQ+ people, especially younger generations, "queer" is a fully reclaimed positive identity term. For others, it remains painful. Never use it for someone unless they use it for themselves.