As accepting and resourceful as the LGBTQ+ community is, there are 10 things that queer people need to stop doing. As members of the LGBTQ+ community, it is crucial that we strive for inclusivity, empathy, and understanding. By examining our actions and behaviors, we can foster a more supportive and accepting environment for everyone. There are about 10 things that queer people need to stop doing, so that we can progress as a community.

1. Queer People Need to Stop Gatekeeping and Infighting

Given our history, it can be understandable that some may want to keep the walls up, and maintain a sense of exclusivity. However, times change and it’s time to bring those walls down. It keeps those who are exploring themselves from finding spaces that give them room and acceptance to do so. It is time to dismantle the gates and barriers that keep certain individuals from fully participating in our community. Let us abandon the notion of exclusivity and ensure that all queer people feel included, regardless of their journey, experiences, or identities.

We must put an end to internal division and infighting within our community. Embracing our diversity and supporting one another is vital. Rather than tearing each other down, let’s work together to fight against discrimination and prejudice.

2. Ignoring Intersectionality

Intersectionality recognizes that individuals may experience multiple forms of marginalization based on various aspects of their identity. We need to stop overlooking the intersections of race, class, ability, and so much more. It’s time to start advocating for all members of our community, especially those facing compounded challenges. Don’t forget that many others in the community not only deal with homophobia or transphobia, but racism as well.

3. Assuming Allyship

Inclusion and acceptance are not solely our responsibilities. However, we should stop assuming that allyship is a given. Nice as it would be to assume someone’s allyship, this won’t always be the case, even in progressive cities. It could lead to potentially unsafe situations, or put you in an uncomfortable situation. Stay safe, and do your best to get a read on someone. However, being kind to people and having a willingness to educate can help create more allies and support. 

4. Queer People Need to Stop Dismissing “Different” Identities 

Despite being called the LGBTQ+ community, it’s unfortunate that some letter’s get swept under the rug. Bisexuality and pansexuality often face erasure within and outside the LGBTQ+ community. Whether it’s perpetuating harmful stereotypes or dismissing these identities all together. Acknowledging and supporting all sexual orientations are vital for a truly inclusive community.

Asexual and aromantic individuals also often face erasure and invalidation, even within the LGBTQ+ community. We need to stop dismissing or questioning their identities, acknowledging that asexuality and aromanticism are valid and legitimate orientations. Inclusive discussions about sexuality should include all identities, without exception.

5. Perfectionism and Unrealistic Expectations

We are not infallible, and expecting ourselves or others to be perfect only creates unnecessary pressure. It can feel like we need to offer a picture perfect version of ourselves. We want to be out and proud, but still accepted. Often when other queer people step out of this perfection, it can cause contention within our community. We should instead focus on progress, learning, and supporting each other through our struggles. 

6. Censoring Diverse Experiences

We must recognize that no single experience defines what it means to be queer. Censoring or dismissing the stories of those whose experiences differ from our own limits our understanding of the vast spectrum of queer identities. Instead, let’s celebrate the richness of our community by embracing the unique narratives of all queer individuals.

7. Queer People Need to Stop Ignoring Mental Health and Self-Care

Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being, and it is crucial that we prioritize self-care within our community. There is often a lot of shared trauma within the community, and many face trauma in their own lives. Instead of ignoring or stigmatizing mental health issues, let’s create safe spaces. This way individuals can seek support and openly discuss their struggles without judgment.

8. Rigid Gender Expectations

As a community that has fought for gender acceptance, we must be mindful not to enforce rigid gender norms within our own circles. Let’s challenge stereotypes and allow individuals the freedom to express their gender in ways that feel authentic to them without judgment. Especially when it comes to non-binary identities, or trans individuals who don’t have the desire to “pass” as cis. 

9. Failing to Support LGBTQ+ Youth

Our community’s future lies in the hands of LGBTQ+ youth, and we must provide them with the support and resources they need. It’s vitally important that we don’t turn a blind eye to the challenges they face. Instead let’s invest in mentorship programs, educational initiatives, and safe spaces to nurture and empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders.

10. Queer People Need to Stop Getting Too Comfortable

Marriage equality was a huge milestone for the LGBTQ+ community. However, queer people need to stop assuming that marriage was ever the end-all-be-all of our fight for equality. While it symbolizes a significant milestone, we must keep moving forward, as there is still much work to be done. Trans acceptance and healthcare remain pressing issues that demand our attention and support. 

What Can You Do

We cannot forget the ongoing discrimination faced by other members of the LGBTQ+ community. Those belonging to racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with diverse gender identities, and those with disabilities all need our support. True equality is not just about securing legal rights. It also involves dismantling systemic barriers and challenging societal norms.

It’s advocating for comprehensive healthcare access, mental health support, and economic opportunities for all members of our community. As we continue our journey towards a more inclusive and accepting world, let’s stand together! Let’s amplify each other’s voices and work so every member of the LGBTQ+ community can live authentically and without fear of discrimination.