Beauty Beyond Bodies

An old saying goes as “Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder”, but is it still relevant in the modern era? Do we still need validation for the beauty we behold within us? Are we still waiting for an acceptance from someone to live our own lives?

Pride Parade

Each year the month of June is dedicated to the members of the LGBT community, often also called the Pride Month. Parades, marches, symposiums, concerts, and whatnot, this is a month-long gala, celebrating the individuality of the queers, lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgenders. Although, many questions this dedicated celebration, but what they fail to understand is that this isn’t done because they are different. Instead, it is observed as an attempt to recognize the struggles of theirs in being accepted in society even though they weren’t any different from the others.

The “New Normal” Of Pride Celebrations

Pondering to know more about the LGBT community? If so, then it is for you that we bring some of the amazing facts dedicated to this community, their life, and their culture.

One Historical Movement – The Stonewall Uprising

The Historic Stonewell Uprising of 1969

On June 28, 1969, a series of spontaneous, violent demonstrations by the members of the LGBT community broke out in the Stonewall Inn, New York, in response to a police raid that took place in the early hours of the same day. This historical movement, not only acted as a tipping point” for the gay liberation movement around the globe but also, paved the way to the modern-day LGBT movements. It is in commemoration of this day that the entire month of June is celebrated as the Pride Month.

 Two Anti-Gay Myths Debunked

Finding Beauty In Differences

 Breaking the stereotypes and cynical thinking of the people has always been one of the toughest jobs in history. And, for this community too, it was not different. They had to face many questions and confront several myths, two of the most prominent being: –

1.    No one is born gay/lesbians

2.    Gays/lesbians people can choose to leave homosexuality

These myths reflected the mere shallowness of one’s knowledge in the bygone eras. However, in today’s world, science sees the process of sexual orientation — homosexual, bisexual, or heterosexual, as a mixture of genetic and environmental factors. And thus, it is not something by choice.                                     

 Three Queer Heroes To Look-Up To

In the process of bringing the LBTQ community to the forefront and in assuring them their deserved rights, there have been several faces whose names are forever etched in history. Of all of them, there have been three names which have repeatedly been quoted and remembered for their relentless and invaluable contribution to the present LGBT scenario.

1.     Karl Heinrich Ulrichs

Karl Heinrich Ulrichs

Considered to be the first gay person to publicly speak out for homosexual rights, Karl Heinrich was a civil servant in Germany who was forced to resign on the grounds of his homosexuality. He, later, went on to become a gay activist and published twelve volumes of work about sexuality, which is believed to be the first theory about homosexuality.

2.    Barbara Gittings

Barbara Gittings

Commonly known as the mother of the LGBT civil rights movement, she was an important member of the American Psychiatric Association and contributed significantly in removing homosexuality from the list of psychiatric disorders. In recognition of her selfless service/fight for the LGBT community, she was honored with the annual civil rights award by APA in the year 2006.

3.    Harvey Milk

Harvey Milk

A prominent gay activist, he was the first openly gay person elected to the public office, winning a seat on the San Francisco City Council Board. However, shot by a fellow council member in 1978, his life became an inspiration for many. Apart from the numerous books dedicated to him, a biographical film directed by Gus Van Sant, titled “MILK”, was also released in 2008 which won several awards including the academy awards for Best Original Screenplay (Dustin Lance Black) and Best Actor in a Leading Role (Sean Penn).

Four Films Embracing The LGBT Community

Honoring the struggles faced by the queer community in establishing themselves as a part of this society, many directors have dedicated their films to them. Amongst all of them, few of the mention-worthy ones include: –

1.      Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Official Poster – Dog Day Afternoon

Many people do not consider this as an LGBT film but, for those who have resonated with its characters agree that it certainly is. A marvel on many levels, it is the subtle work of Sidney Lumet and the sensitive portrayal of the trans character that makes this movie relevant even 45-year  after its release.

2.      Stranger by the Lake (2013)

Official Poster – Stranger By The Lake

One of the most engaging thrillers, this darkly funny film talks about experiencing dangers alongside desires – a struggle every queer can relate too. Be it the amazing soundtracks, flawless cinematography, or emotive delivery, this film stands out in all aspects and is sure to be eternally etched in the heart of those who watch it.

3.      Sunday Bloody Sunday (1971)

Official Poster- Sunday Bloody Sunday

This film is considered to be the first to portray bisexuality as well as queer characters kissing and loving each other, free from the fear of being judged by others. One of the finest works of director
John Schlesinger, this film gives out a message of how the queers can change the world and be happy and successful, in contrast to what they are assumed to be.

4.      Stud Life (2012)

Official Poster -Stud Life

Some films create history and Stud Life, too, hasn’t been far behind in doing so. A film which is as real and as close to the life of any LGBT member, it is often quoted to have humor in the face of prejudice. Packed with subtle loving friendships, unselfconscious sexiness, and beautiful intersectional diversity, this film talks volumes and is a must-see for everyone who wishes to know their queer friends a bit more.

Five Books Honouring The Life Of A Queer

If one wishes to study the life of any being, a book is the best way to do so. From biographies to autobiographies, from memorials to narratives, various authors across the world have penned and expressed their thoughts and emotions about the queer community through the words of their published works. Amongst the numerous books the LGBTQs can resonate to, the few which are a class apart include: –

1.    Red, White, And Royal Blue By Casey McQuiston

Love Is Free!

A tale of enemies to lovers at its finest, this book talks about what happens when the first son of the United States falls for the prince of England. From dramatic problems to adorable solutions, this book proves that life without problems isn’t life at all.

2.    Summer Bird Blue By Akemi Dawn Bowman

Cherished Relations Are The Key To Sanctity!

An ace representation in fiction, this book takes the readers on an emotional rollercoaster. It is a book which beautifully highlights the importance of relationships with friends and beloveds, without prioritizing romanticism over them. Besides, what is amazing is the way Akemi subtly talks about the orientation of Rumi (the main character), though not giving it the center stage.

3.    Ring Of Swords By Eleanor Arnason

Are We Ready To face The World!

A one-of-its-kind book about a homosexual alien species invading the Earth, this weaves a beautiful story about how the bilateral diplomatic mission of the aliens leads them to fall for the love of humans, thence making them realize that they are more similar than being different. This masterpiece unjustly examines the homosexual and homosocial culture and through the characters, talk about finding beauty in differences.

4.    Boy Erased By Garrard Conley

A Book And Then A Film!

A book dedicated to the journey of rediscovering and reexploring one’s self, this book is one of the finest works of Conley. Talking about how a boy is forced to follow a decision that of attending church-supported conversion therapy, this book throws light on the aspect of self-acceptance and on the struggles faced while trying to belong to the surroundings.

5.    Anger Is A Gift By Mark Oshiro

Anger Is A Gift!

Police brutality, racism, anxiety, and much more, this book is all about a group of queer teenagers trying to fight the odds. Interwoven with care, love, and pride, this YA novel beautifully highlights the importance of friendship and togetherness in times of trials and tribulations. This is a must-read for all those who wish to know in-depth about the sufferings of a queer as well as about the celebration of queer life.

Six Colours, Six Philosophies

It Is The 7 Colours Which Come Together Forming The Rainbow

When talking about the LGBT community, one of the most prominent symbols of their representation is their vibrant flag. Created by an American artist and gay rights activist, Gilbert Baker, in 1978, this flag has had a great role in all the movements led by them. The 6 vivid colors of the flag represent the 6 important philosophies a queer lives -up to-

1. Red – Life
2. Orange – Healing
3. Yellow – Sunlight
4. Green – Nature
5. Blue – Harmony
6. Violet – Spirit

Seven Songs To Rock n’ Roll

From ever since the music industry developed, there have been songs on various aspects of society, highlighting different issues. Be it songs which led movements or be it those talking about political propaganda, every song has a special meaning to it. Here are 7 of the most amazing compositions dedicated to the LGBT community, to which every queer is sure to resonate.

1.      Born This Way – Lady Gaga

2.      In My Blood – Shawn Mendes

3.      Firework – Katy Perry

4.      Dancing on My Own by Robyn

5.      Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae Jepsen

6.      Raise Your Glass by P!nk

7.       I Feel Love by Donna Summer