conclusion essay about lgbt

Department of English

How are lgbt youths affected by discrimination and what can schools do to help.

This essay shows how discrimination leads to increased high school drop out rates for LGBT youths and, of greater concern, increased rates of suicide and substance abuse.

Gaell Jocelyn-Blackman

In this paper, I will discuss the different types of discrimination that LGBT youths are faced with and the effects on these youths. The paper will elaborate on the severe impacts on LGBT youths not only caused by discrimination but also due to lack of support and guidance. The paper will also discuss the roles of the parents and schools in helping minimize discrimination against LGBT youths. This paper will also hopefully instruct schools and parents to accept and support gay students rather than add to the discrimination that they already face. Doing so will reduce the high school drop out rate and most importantly the youth suicide rate. In essence, the purpose of this research paper is to identify the different effects on LGBT youths due to discrimination and to explore various actions that can and should be taken by schools and parents to help these youths live a normal and happy life. Therefore, my target audience is the school system as well as the parents of LGBT youths.

Suicide is the leading cause of death among gay and lesbian youths. Gay and lesbian youths are 2 to 6 times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual youth. Over 30% of all reported teen suicides each year are committed by gay and lesbian youths. . . . Gays and lesbians are at much higher risk than the heterosexual population for alcohol and drug abuse. Approximately 30% of both the lesbian and gay male populations have problems with alcohol. Gay and lesbian youth are at greater risk for school failure than heterosexual children. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1989, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

Substantially higher proportions of homosexual people use alcohol, marijuana or cocaine than is the case in the general population. (McKirnan & Peterson, 1989, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

Approximately 28% of gay and lesbian youths drop out of high school because of discomfort (due to verbal and physical abuse) in the school environment. (Remafedi, 1987, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

Gay and lesbian youths’ discomfort stems from fear of name calling and physical harm. (Eversole, n.d, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

M any people are guilty of discrimination against LGBT youths, whether consciously or unconsciously. LGBT youths are faced with daily discrimination from society, peers, family and even school teachers and administrations. The above statistics not only show that LGBT youths lack support and guidance but also prove how much these youths are clearly affected, in more ways than one, by discrimination. Cole (2007) mentions that there is a higher rate of abuse, neglect, and discrimination against LGBT youths than straight youths. I believe that most parents would prefer their children to be straight than to be gay, and most school officials also prefer straight students over gay students. This preference could be a contributing factor in discrimination against LGBT youths. This paper will hopefully capture the attention of parents and schools and perhaps help modify their outlook on LGBT youths. Fundamentally, I will attempt to answer the following questions throughout the paper: What are the effects of discrimination against LGBT youths? What is the role of the parents? What is the role of the schools? How can parents and schools work together to help minimize discrimination against LGBT youths? What more can be done? Before answering those questions, I will start by addressing the types of discrimination that LGBT youths are faced with.

Types of Discrimination

Some of the comments that LGBT youths are faced with are as follows: “I hate gays. They should be banned from this country;” “Get away from me, you faggot. I can’t stand the sight of you;” “These queers make my stomach turn.” Those are only a few of the biased statements that LBGT youths are faced with in society. According to Cole (2007), the word “faggot” is often used by anti-gay peers to terrorize LGBT youths. Words such as “faggot” or “gay” are sometimes used in a negative sense to express something either stupid or uncool (Human Rights Watch, 2001, p.35). When that occurs, it shows an even greater sign of discrimination against LGBT youths. I noticed that these words are not only used in the real world but also in movies and TV shows which makes it harder for LGBT youths to deal with. In addition to the discrimination from society and their peers, LGBT youths also endure discrimination from home/families and particularly schools.

“Today’s Gay Youth: The Ugly, Frightening Statistics” (n.d.) reports that one half of LGBT youths are neglected by their parents because of their sexual preference and approximately a quarter of LGBT youths are mandated to leave their homes. Cole (2007) explains that rejected LGBT youths generally do not learn how to build a relationship with peers or families. As a result, it creates a state of loneliness and isolation for them. Some LGBT youths are both verbally and physically abused by parents (“Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d.). In addition, roughly about 40% of youths that are homeless are classified as LGBT youths. The same article shows 27% of male teenagers who classified themselves as gay or bisexual left home due to quarrels with family members over their sexuality. Needless to say, parents and families play a big part in discrimination against LGBT youths and the effects that it has on them.

Nevertheless, it appears that the majority of the discrimination against LGBT youths emanates from the schools that they attend. Are schools taking any actions to minimize discrimination against gay students? What are they doing to help these adolescents? The following quote is an explicit example of how schools can contribute to discrimination against LGBT youths:

I took a call from one sixteen-year-old who came out to his counselor. The only other person he’d told was his friend in California. The counselor said, “I can’t help you with that.” After he left, the counselor called his mother to make sure she knew. The youth went home that night not knowing that he’d been outed to his parents. Sitting around the dinner table, his mother said to him, “I got a call from the school counselor today. We’re not going to have any gay kids in this family.” His father took him outside and beat him. (as cited in Human Rights Watch, 2001, p.106)

Human Rights Watch (2001) also reports that the same youth was harassed by his peers once they found out about his sexuality. At this point he turned to suicide, but was fortunately taken in by a family member who lived out of state where he finished school (p. 106). In the mentioned quote, the sixteen-year-old student did not get any support from his school guidance counselor or his parents. If his own school and parents would not give him any guidance or support, who else could he turn to? What is the alternative? This example could be a common concern throughout the world, where LGBT youths are not comfortable with their gender at school at home. Consequently, they are faced with an alternative which is rarely a positive one. The alternatives that they face may include depression, substance abuse, violence, and even suicide.

Effects of Discrimination

LGBT youths endure hostile verbal and physical harassment that can be excruciating for them (Human Rights Watch, 2001, p. 35). Human Rights Watch (2001) also states that although the youths that were interviewed emphasized their fear of physical and sexual assault, being called words like “faggot,” “queer,” or “dyke,” daily is still destructive (p.35).

One young gay youth who had dropped out of an honors program angrily protested, “just because I am gay doesn’t mean I am stupid,” as he told of hearing “that’s so gay” meaning “that’s so stupid,” not just from other students but from teachers in his school. (Human Rights Watch, 2001, p. 35)

Over 25% of LGBT youths are high school drop outs because of the discrimination they are faced with in the school atmosphere (“Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d.). The article also states the LGBT youths have a greater risk of academic failure than heterosexual students. Furthermore they don’t get involved much in student activities and have very little dedication to the school’s agendas because school isn’t a safe, healthy, or productive learning environment. Therefore, LGBT youths make an attempt to live, work, and learn with continuous fear of physical assault at school (“Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d.).

Physical abuse against LGBT youths usually occurs due to disregarded harassment (Human Rights Watch, 2001, p. 42). Human Rights Watch (2001) says that the number of physical assaults that were reported by interviewed LGBT youths had an enormous psychological impact on them, mainly because the physical abuse followed constant verbal and non-physical harassment that was overlooked by school officials (p. 42). For example, a lesbian student reported that several months of harassment and verbal threats grew to physical abuse. “‘I got hit in the back of the head with an ice scraper.’ By that point, she said she was so used to being harassed. ‘I didn’t even turn around to see who it was’” (Human Rights Watch, 2001, p. 42). Another incident mentioned by Human Rights Watch (2001) involved a tenth grade gay youth who was hit in the back of the neck with a beer bottle. He literally had to crawl to the nearest friend’s house for immediate assistance. The same youth was beaten up in the seventh grade by a couple of anti-gay kids (p. 42). One last example entails another gay youth who first suffered from verbal assault and students throwing items at him. Subsequently, a group of anti-gay students strangled him with a drafting line so bad that it cut him. Later that school year the youth was dragged down a flight of stairs and cut with knives by his classmates (Human Rights Watch, 2001, p. 42). Fortunately, he lived to talk about it.

Human Rights Watch (2001) implies that verbal and physical violence is a tension that LGBT youths have gotten accustomed to; however, it is damaging to their psychological wellbeing (p. 68). Many of the LGBT youths interviewed by Human Rights Watch (2001) reported signs of depression such as: “sleeplessness, excessive sleep, loss of appetite, and feeling of hopelessness”(p. 69). One reported incident involved a gay youth who could not take it anymore. He started to skip school so that he would not have to put up with the harassment anymore. He stayed at home all day and ended up missing fifty-six days of school. The youth explained, “‘It was mentally and physically stressful for me to go to that school. I remember going home and waking up in the morning just dreading it; dreading the fact that I would have to go back to that school’” (as cited in Human Rights Watch, 2001, p. 69). Other youths reported that even when the harassment was not addressed directly toward them, they were affected by it. One youth implied that discrimination and harassment makes him feel like he is backed up into a corner and so sad that he wants to cry (Human Rights Watch, 2001, p. 69). It is no wonder LGBT youth turn to drugs, alcohol, and suicide.

Cole (2007) claims that discrimination against LGBT youths can create repression along with a deficiency in their natural growth. Discrimination also has a social and emotional impact on them. Instead of being social individuals, LGBT youths remain in the closet and hide. The loneliness that they bear can turn into depression which often leads to substance abuse or even suicide. LGBT youths have greater chances of alcohol and substance abuse than heterosexual youths (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1989, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d.). Also, roughly about one third of LGBT youths have a drinking or drug problem. Human Rights Watch (2001) interviewed some LGBT youths who say that they drink to the point of passing out or to feel good and normal (p. 69). The lack of support from parents or schools can possibly make them feel like there is no hope of ever living a happy life and being productive (Human Rights Watch, 2001, p. 68).

Roles of Parents

50% of all gay and lesbian youths report that their parents reject them due to their sexual orientation. In a study of male teenagers self-described as gay or bisexual, 27% moved away from home because of conflict with family members over sexual orientation. (Remafedi, 1987, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

26% of gay and lesbian youth are forced to leave home because of conflicts over their sexual orientation. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1989, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

In a study of 194 gay and lesbian youth, 25% were verbally abused by parents, and nearly 10% dealt with threatened or actual violence. (D’Augelli, 1997, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

Approximately 40% of homeless youths are identified as gay, lesbian or bisexual. (Eversole, n.d., as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

Service providers estimate that gay, lesbian and bisexual youths make up 20-40% of homeless youth in urban areas. (National Network of Runaway and Youth Services, 1991, as cited in “Today’s Gay Youth,” n.d., n.p.)

It appears that the lack of support, protection, and guidance from family also has a major effect on LGBT youths. Perhaps, if their families were more supportive, the suicide and depression rates of LGBT youths would be moderately less. I believe that parents should embrace their children no matter what their sexual preference is. For an adolescent, I think that family should be the primary source for seeking support and guidance. When parents reject their gay or lesbian adolescent, I feel that it can possibly set him or her up for failure. This era is the time when adolescents would need their parents’ love and support the most. I also sense that when LGBT youths don’t get the love and support that they are looking for from parents, it contributes to their state of depression and suicidal phase. Therefore, parents of LGBT youths should take time to reflect on the circumstances before they make the wrong decisions.

One way of showing support would be for the youths’ parents or family to intervene with the school or at least make an attempt like the mother in the following quote:

“The more I talked to teachers, the superintendent, and the principal, the more they just kept throwing up brick walls and trying to convince me I would have to let my son go through this,” Ms. Cooper said. “But no child should have to go through this, whether he’s gay or not. When [bullying] gets to the point where a kid wants to quit school and give up his future, something has to be done.” (Browman, 2001, p. 3)

In the above case, the parent was being supportive to her gay son while the school officials were not. Like many other schools, they choose to ignore the fact that the gay student is being bullied and discriminated against. As mentioned earlier in the paper, that kind of response from schools also contributes to the effects of depression on LGBT youths.

Roles of Schools

“Educators cannot ignore the risks faced by homosexual students, but deciding how to deal with the issue should be a matter of local concern” (Archer, 2002, n.p.). In his article, Archer is stressing that educators must address discrimination against gay students and must put aside their personal views to create a safe environment for these students. In her article, Browman (2001) also talks about the lack of attention from school teachers and administrators toward gay discrimination and harassment. Browman (2001) acknowledges the educational effect on LGBT youths due to constant harassment in school. A very interesting point that was made in this article is, if a student makes a racial comment in school, he or she gets punished. So why should remarks like “dyke,” “fag,” or “queer” be acceptable? Are those words equal to the same level of discrimination as making a racial comment? The article advises that the problem of discrimination or harassment can be addressed at the verbal stage before it gets to the physical point or causes the youth’s academic learning to be harmed (Browman, 2001). The article continues to imply that teachers and administrators often fail to cease discrimination or harassment against LGBT youth. They are either afraid of facing prejudice from others or perhaps even because of their own prejudice (Browman, 2001). The article also suggests a way to express to all students that harassment or discrimination against LGBT students will not be tolerated. Consequences such as school conduct codes and discipline policies should be established as well as anti-harassment rules (Browman, 2001).

Browman (2001) reports that Human Rights Watch completed a two-year study on the topic where an immediate response was obtained from educational groups such as: The National Education Association, The Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Educational Alliance, and The American Federation of Teachers. The three groups adhered in influencing the Education Department to defend and protect gay and lesbian students from discrimination. They add that schools are making an effort to create a safe environment for all students where they can all be treated with equal respect and dignity. Accordingly, the department fights to provide the schools with information and guidance to help solve the problem of discrimination against LGBT youths (Browman, 2001).

Furthermore, New York City has made an attempt to come up with a solution that they thought would possibly reduce discrimination against LGBT youths by opening an all-gay school. I see this movement as a possible increase in discrimination against LGBT youths. If they are all put together in one school, how is that helping them deal with discrimination from society, peers and others outside of the school? And how is that teaching anti-gay students not to discriminate against LGBT youths? I don’t think isolation from the rest of the world is the best solution for LGBT youths. They are human beings just like the rest of us and they should be treated accordingly. I agree with what is stated in Browman’s (2001) article about the schools accomplishing all they can to stop discrimination against LGBT youths.

The two primary sources that have the power and ability to diminish discrimination against LGBT youths are schools and parents. In my opinion, they are the ones who have the greatest influence on LGBT youths and in turn have the ability to reduce substance abuse, educational failure, and suicides. Parents and schools need to realize how much they can help diminish the effects of discrimination against LGBT youths if they work together and productively. Clearly, if they remain on the same page they can ease the agony for LGBT youths and help them live a normal and happy life. One method that can be exercised in schools is a homosexual sensitivity training for anti-gay students and school officials. The training would benefit both students and school officials. I think that it would help the school officials manage whatever prejudices they may have against LGBT youths. Since anti-gay bullying students are perhaps ignorant to the subject, schools should modify a system where all students can be educated on the subject. It would probably help the students get a better understanding if homosexuality was compared to other subject matters such as culture and religion. Students should be provided with a full view of the subject just like any other. If this method helps only two out of ten anti-gay students cease discrimination against LGBT students, I am sure that it will make a difference. An additional scheme that should be established is monthly meetings between school officials and parents to review the progress of measures that are already in place.

Before writing this research paper, I never imagined how immensely affected LGBT youths were by discrimination. It is awful what they go through and how most people are clueless or even careless about what these youths endure. LGBT youths are faced with discrimination, torture, and sometimes even execution because of who they love, how they look, or who they are. I believe that sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of ourselves and should never lead to discrimination or abuse. Doing this research not only made me realize the intense discrimination suffered by LGBT youths but also had an impact on me. This research has made me want to advocate for more laws and policies to help protect LGBT youths. I have gained a ton of information and knowledge during this process. However, if my readers obtain half of the valuable information that I have obtained, I know that I have accomplished my task.

Archer, J. (2002, February). Local schools must address safety for gays. Education Week, 21 (23), 3. Retrieved October 12, 2007, from EBSCO Host database.

Browman, D. H. (2001, June). Report says schools often ignore harassment of gay students. Education Week, 20 (39), 5. Retrieved October 12, 2007, from EBSCO Host database.

Cole, S. (2007, April). Protecting our youth. Edge . Retrieved October 31, 2007, from www.edgeboston.com

Human Rights Watch (2001). Hatred in the hallways. NY: Human Rights Watch.

Today’s gay youth: The ugly, frightening statistics (n.d.). Retrieved October 31, 2007, from www.pflagphoenix.org

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Argumentative Essays on LGBT

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The Importance of Accepting The LGBT

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Lgbtq+ Acceptance in The Irish Community

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Impact of Social Media Platform on Self-concept Among Lgbtqia+ Community

Research and discussion on homosexuality nowadays, homosexuality and evolution: analyzing homosexuality as an adaptive strategy, the development of gay rights movement in the usa, nature of same-sex relationship: divorce, american literature: how lgbt invisibility shapes narratives, criminalization of homosexuality in england, wales, and scotland, the privilege and struggles of the transgender individuals in trans bodies, trans selves, a book edited by laura erickson-schroth, the sexual identity and overall well being of chiron in moonlight, a film by barry jenkins, how lgbt movement led to the legalization of gay marriages in the united states, homosexuality: debating issues in the light of indian legal and social system, what is pink capitalism and its representation in giovanni’s room, persecution and liberation of gays in the middle east, the issue of religious freedom for lgbt community, how one choice can have a harmful effect on others, money boy by paul yee: the issue of sexuality and sexual preference, scientific research and discussion on homosexuality, reflection on redefining realness by janet mock, rallying cry for equality among the lgbtq: the murder of matthew shepard, the negative impacts of homophobia on people.

LGBT is an initialism that represents the diverse identities of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. This term, along with its commonly used variations, serves as an umbrella term encompassing a range of sexual orientations and gender identities. It acknowledges and respects the experiences and diversity within these communities. The initialism LGBT provides a concise way to refer to these groups, promoting inclusivity and recognition of the unique challenges and contributions of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.

Starting around 1988, activists in the United States began adopting the initialism LGBT. It wasn't until the 1990s that the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender communities within the movement started receiving equal recognition. While the LGBT community has faced challenges and debates over the acceptance of various groups within it, the term LGBT has come to symbolize inclusivity and has had a positive impact. It serves as a unifying symbol for individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, reflecting the ongoing progress towards equal respect and understanding. The evolution of the term LGBT highlights the collective efforts of activists and serves as a reminder of the continued work needed to achieve universal acceptance within the community.

Ellen DeGeneres: A well-known comedian, actress, and talk show host, DeGeneres came out as a lesbian in 1997, making a significant impact on mainstream visibility and acceptance of the LGBT community. She has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used her platform to promote inclusivity and understanding. Sir Ian McKellen: A renowned British actor, McKellen has been openly gay and a prominent advocate for LGBT rights. He has used his platform to raise awareness, challenge discrimination, and promote inclusivity in the entertainment industry and beyond. Ellen Page (Elliot Page): Page, a Canadian actor, came out as gay in 2014 and later as transgender in 2020, changing his name to Elliot Page. He has been vocal about his experiences and has become an important advocate for transgender rights and representation in the media. Janelle Monáe: An American singer, songwriter, and actor, Monáe has identified as pansexual, openly expressing her attraction to people regardless of their gender. She has used her artistry and platform to promote LGBTQ+ visibility and empowerment. Billy Porter: A multi-talented actor, singer, and fashion icon, Porter is openly gay and has been a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He has made a significant impact through his activism, while his unique style and presence challenge traditional gender norms.

Public opinion regarding the topic of LGBT has undergone significant transformations over time. While societal attitudes towards the LGBT community have become more accepting and supportive in various regions, it is essential to acknowledge that perspectives can vary widely based on cultural, religious, and individual beliefs. In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend towards increased acceptance and inclusivity towards LGBT individuals. Many individuals now recognize the importance of upholding equal rights and protections for people of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. This shift can be attributed to factors such as heightened visibility of LGBT individuals in mainstream media, educational initiatives, and the tireless activism of the LGBT rights movement. However, it is crucial to note that not all individuals hold positive views towards the LGBT community. There are still pockets of resistance and discrimination, often rooted in deeply ingrained biases and misconceptions. These differing opinions contribute to ongoing debates and discussions surrounding issues like same-sex marriage, transgender rights, and the need for anti-discrimination measures.

The depiction of LGBT individuals in media has undergone significant changes, reflecting the evolving attitudes and increasing visibility of the LGBT community. In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards more authentic and diverse portrayals, highlighting the complexities and experiences of LGBT individuals. Television shows such as "Pose" have gained acclaim for their authentic representation of the transgender community and the ballroom culture in the 1980s and 1990s. This series not only features transgender actors in prominent roles but also explores the challenges and triumphs faced by the characters, providing a nuanced portrayal. Another example is the film "Moonlight," which received critical acclaim for its poignant depiction of a young, gay African American man navigating his identity and relationships. The film's exploration of sexuality and race resonated with audiences and contributed to important conversations surrounding intersectionality. Furthermore, the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black" introduced a diverse range of LGBT characters, portraying their stories with depth and complexity. By showcasing the experiences of lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women in a prison setting, the series shed light on the intersection of sexuality, gender, and incarceration.

The topic of LGBT is important because it encompasses the rights, experiences, and identities of a significant portion of the population. Recognizing and understanding the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities promotes inclusivity, equality, and social justice. It is crucial to address the unique challenges and discrimination faced by LGBT individuals to foster a society that embraces everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and advocating for equal rights, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where individuals can express their authentic selves without fear of discrimination or marginalization. Embracing the topic of LGBT is a step towards building a more compassionate and equitable society for all.

The topic of LGBT is worth writing an essay for students because it provides an opportunity for education, awareness, and personal growth. Engaging with this topic allows students to develop a deeper understanding of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, fostering empathy and acceptance. Exploring the challenges faced by LGBT individuals, such as discrimination and social stigma, encourages critical thinking and empathy-building skills. Additionally, studying the history and achievements of the LGBT rights movement can inspire students to become advocates for equality and inclusion. By addressing the topic of LGBT, students gain valuable knowledge that is relevant to today's society, helping to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all individuals.

1. A significant portion of the LGBT community (42%) indicates residing in unwelcoming environments, while a substantial number of gay and lesbian youth (80%) experience severe social isolation. 2. Workplace discrimination remains a concern, with 35% of LGBT staff concealing their sexual orientation or gender identity due to fear of discrimination. 3. The majority (90%) of LGBT teens choose to come out to their close friends, highlighting the importance of supportive social circles.

1. Human Rights Campaign. (n.d.). LGBT Issues. Retrieved from https://www.hrc.org/resources/topic/lgbt-issues 2. American Psychological Association. (n.d.). LGBT Resources. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/lgbt 3. GLAAD. (n.d.). About GLAAD. Retrieved from https://www.glaad.org/about 4. Lambda Legal. (n.d.). Impacting Policy. Retrieved from https://www.lambdalegal.org/issues 5. National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://www.nglcc.org/ 6. Williams Institute. (n.d.). Research. Retrieved from https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/research/ 7. The Trevor Project. (n.d.). About. Retrieved from https://www.thetrevorproject.org/about/ 8. Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://transgenderlegal.org/ 9. Center for LGBTQ Economic Advancement & Research. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://lgbtq-economics.org/ 10. Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD). (n.d.). GLAAD Media Reference Guide - 10th Edition. Retrieved from https://www.glaad.org/reference

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Persuading for Equality: Embracing LGBTQ Rights

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LGBT - Free Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

Among cultural and ethical impacts, a special community in the society of the United States society has been pressed for its sexual orientation. Many people blame them for being who they are. Such a community is called LGBT, which incorporates lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. If this theme is close to you and you are aware of specific issues these people face, you can embark on writing argumentative essays about LGBTQ. There is much to write about their rights, relationship, societal acceptance, or discrimination. Also, there is a place to argue about the government’s attitude toward the LGBTQ community. So, there are enough issues to raise and discuss in your essay.

To make your research easier, we recommend you study available essay examples on LGBT. This will help you direct your thoughts and problems you want to argue in your research paper. Make sure you start with an outline where you point out the introduction, main body, and conclusion to bring up a quality paper. If you don’t feel confident with your topic about gender equality, you can always come to our LGBT essay topics section. Once you define a theme for your paper, ensure to define an interesting thesis statement.

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Discrimination is well known in all societies. It is treating some people unequally that is treating people differently. Discrimination can be unlawful or legal. Legal discrimination is whereby you discriminate against a person for being who he or she is. However, if you treat a person in an unjust manner due to their race, religion, age, nationality ethical background or gender is said to be unlawful. In businesses, for instance, where an employer may decide to mistreat his or her […]

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LGBT Tolerance in the Netherlands

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LGBT+ Rights Movement between 1960-1980

This secondary source depicts the very first LGBT+ Sit-In in 1965. This source gives crucial information that connects the methods of protests of the LGBT+ Rights Movement to other Humanitarian Movements such as the Civil Rights Movement. These types of connections may suggest a reasoning for the quick successes of the LGBT+ Rights Movement quick acheivements with the legalization of same-sex marriage only decades later after the start of the movement, while other movements took almost hundreds of years to […]

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The Transgender Bathroom Bill is one of the hot topics that has been going around the news and media, especially in Texas and North Carolina. This topic has been around since 2016 and it has only grown more and more ever since then. The Transgender Bathroom Bill stems from transgender rights. The bill was created to define the rights and access to public toilets for transgender people. The current arguments circling around this bill is that transgender individuals should be […]

LGBT in Modern Society

Since ancient times, the public has been more or less confused and biased towards LGBTQ people in both China and the West. It is the second ten years of the 21st century. Since 2010, more and more LGBTQ people get into the mainstream explosively. LGBTQ is not strange and new to modern society today anymore. There are 28 countries and cities which have acknowledged the legality of homoseuxal marriage, such as Canada, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, France, etc; 20 countries have […]

Sexual Prejudice Towards LGBTQ and Gender Differences

Sexual Prejudice Towards LGBTQ and Gender Differences: Literature Review Social Psychology Ana Esther Paulino Sanchez SUNY Geneseo Abstract There is a difference between the prejudice and attitude towards LGBTQ according to gender. Studies like Gregory M. Hereck (2000), Sarlo and Buodo (2017), Glotfelter and Anderson (2012), and Kiebel et al (2017) further explore these differences. In each study, the difference in sexual prejudice according to gender is analyzed differently. All of the results came to a similar conclusion that men […]

Depiction of Discrimination in to Kill a Mockingbird

"Our generation has had no Great war, no Great Depression. Out war is spiritual. Our depression is our lives" (Chuck Palahniuk). Discrimination was most common in the 1930's and was performed by prejudice people against others. In the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, discrimination is one of the main conflicts in the story. Till this day, people still face discrimination and injustice. Throughout the novel, sexism, classism, and racism are prominent in the lives of the characters. […]

Types of Discrimination Exists in the Diverse LGBTQ Community

In the past few years, people in the United States of America who identify as being a part of the LGBTQ community are progressively encouraged each day to publicly announce their desired sexual orientation due to recent strides in equality. When looking back into history of America, there were countless events where individuals who came out as homosexuals in the past were viewed as 'disturbing' and 'inappropriate' and were severely punished for doing so. This resulted into the tragic reality […]

United States: LGBT Students Discrimination

Discrimination towards LGBT students across the United States is a very important and controversial issue. This essay will elaborate the different impacts that the LGBT youth face, not only discrimination but also the lack of support that they are given, and the parental guidance that they deserve. The following essay will also discuss what roles parents and teachers need to take in order to prevent this from occurring. As well as the statistics like the number of high school dropouts, […]

Use of Public Restrooms by Transgender People

For years, transgender people in the LGBTQ community has been fighting for their civil rights. The rights to marry who they love, the rights to protect their country by joining the army, and now the rights to use the restroom of their choice. More and more transgenders are demanding the right to use the public restroom that identifies their sex. “Over 30 percent of trans people report not eating or drinking so they can avoid going to public restrooms,” Laverne […]

The Ongoing Political Debate over LGBTQ Health Care

The ongoing political debate over Health Care Reform has been unfolding for over a century. Lately, the focus has been on discontinuing the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and its impact on specialty populations inside our community. It is not surprising how the pro’s and con’s of this topic is so heavily debated, due to the variety of cultures and diversities classified as “specialty populations” in the United States. When discussing this topic, one must be able to differentiate and fully […]

Mentoring LGBT Youth

Abstract Mentoring LGBT youth is especially important due to the incredibly high rate of suicide in the LGBT community. According to the Human Rights Campaign around twenty-six percent of LGBT youth stated that they “always feel safe in their school classrooms” which is nearly a quarter of all LGBT reported youth. It was only five percent that stated that they felt that “all of their teachers and school staff are supportive of LGBT individuals” (hrc.org). Moving on to the home […]

LZ Granderson and Issues LGBT Community

I already knew the LGBT were discriminated against. What was startling to me were the maps Granderson pulled up, giving visual to the states that have laws protecting LGBT people, more importantly, that most states do not. I guess I never thought about the fact that without specific laws protecting LGBT American's, there is no protection against being fired, evicted from housing, and being disqualified to adopt. I think I based LGBT issues on what is reported in media, which […]

Substance Abuse Among LGBT

Dating as far back as the 1920's the gay rights movement has slowly fought for the rights and changes that have made the United States what it is today. Beginning from the stonewall riots, to enacting laws against sexual orientation discrimination, as well as the ""Don't ask don't tell policy"" and the landmark supreme court decision Obergefell v. Hodges, that extended the right for same sex couples to marry nationwide. All of these are just some of the most progressive […]

What it Means to be Transgender

Being transgender is a very controversial topic. Some people say being transgender bad and that your commiting a sin, some people say it's alright and to do what you feel what's right as long as you're being true to yourself, and other people just don't care. I believe being transgender is not good or bad. But the question being asked, is transgender good or bad? This not the real question, the real question that people are asking is transgender a […]

Gay Bullying: Bullying in LGBTQ Students

In the past ten years an overwhelming amount of students have come out to say that they are some form of LGBTQ. According to the center of disease control roughly 1.3 million high school students identify as LGBTQ. These students face turmoil and outright discrimination in school. The widely used acronym stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender etc. While repetitive bullying has occasionally lead to self mutilation or suicide, bullying in LGBTQ teens make both of these occurrences significantly more […]

How are LGBT+ People Portrayed in the Media?

How gay men and lesbians are presented in the media has been one of the most abundant areas of analysis and research within homosexual studies as well as a queer theory since the 1970s (Gudelunas). Although in a relatively recent area of study, this work is considered essential for a better understanding of how a modern gay and lesbian identity was shaped, reflected, and at times ignored by mainstream media (Hoffman). In the United States and soon to be everywhere […]

The LGBT Subculture – Same-Sex Attraction

The LGBT subculture refers the same-sex attraction. Individuals who belong in this subculture include Lesbians (females attracted to other females), Gays (males attracted to other males), Bisexuals (people attracted to both same and opposite sexes), and Transgenders (people who have undergone sex change). The LGBT subculture is among the minorities within society due to discrimination from individuals who are against the LGBT society. Individuals who belong to the LGBT subculture are vulnerable as they face the risk of being attacked […]

Self Esteem Among the LGBT

Abstract This study observed how self-esteem is seen among those who are a part of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community. At times it will be referred to as LGBTQ which includes queer as well. Data from multiple studies on each part of the LGBT was studied to see if self-esteem is affected. Minority stress scales, self-esteem scales, mindfulness acceptance, and family and friends were looked at to see if any of those might influence stress. Self-esteem is […]

Transgenders in the Church

As the issue of gender identity and how to handle it has become more prevalent over the recent years, churches in the United States have been forced to make decisions about their ideologies regarding these individuals. As was the case with homosexuals before them, transgender and non-binary persons have long faced discrimination from religious groups, in large part due to the church struggling with how the concept of transgender persons fits in with the traditional idea of the creation of […]

LGBTQ Representation in Media

The representation of LGBTQ people in mainstream media in recent years has been questioned for some time now. In a 2017 InStyle article Alim Kheraj unfolds the findings of GLAAD Studio Responsibility Index- GLAAD being a media monitoring organization with the mission of holding media outlets accountable for their representation of LGBTQ people. Kheraj points out that major productions studios, who reach massive audiences globally, fail to represent queer people, especially those who don’t identify as lesbian or gay as […]

LGBT Employment Discrimination

Abstract Diversity at workplace has been an important agenda to be achieved by most of the organizations. Legally India has taken many steps in this area to identify the rights of LGBT community. Discrimination and the fear of discrimination is an important concern among the minorities at workplace. They get ignored and ill-treated by the other employees for their sexual preference. Nevertheless progress have been made in this sector and organizations have developed many policies to protect the rights of […]

Inequality and Discrimination LGBTQ Face

Hugo Lopez SOCI 1306 April 7, 2019 M. Laurel-Wilson Inequality and Discrimination LGBTQ Individuals Face Ever since early ages, LGBTQ individuals have been coping with discrimination. The severity of the issue varies from lynching to even avoiding sitting right next to them. These issues can also vary from public spaces (train station, school, bus), to even their workplace, and even at home where they do not get support from their family. Having to face this discrimination daily is why so […]

Inclusive Sex Education for Lgbt in Schools

As a person of color and sister of two gay brothers, I have been deeply concerned of the topic of inclusion of all type of minority groups, especially those in the LGBT community. For many years they have been treated as outsiders of societal standards and living with constant fear that they will be next in line to being stoned to death. We hear and see in the news of LGBT individuals who have been physically attacked or killed for […]

Disenfranchised Transgender People of Color Current Events

Ever present and always relevant, transgender issues deserve a lot of traction and there is this excelling push for reformation. Nonetheless, passionate hearts, old and young continue to fight for their own. Whether you are an ally or personally affected, the drive for change still remains. I, myself, a member of the LGBTQIA also referred as Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual community, proud representative of the “B” and as a woman of color I am fully aware […]

LGBT Adoption Rights

The LGBT community in America has come a long way in recent years. In June of 2015, President Barack Obama announced to the public that The United States Supreme Court struck down all state laws banning same-sex marriage. A similar law was passed that prohibited businesses from discriminating against potential or current employees due to their sexual or romantic orientation. It was a huge step forward for the LGBT community. More americans were able to express their true selves, without […]

LGBTQ Rights and the Labeling Theory

Hello Katie. Thank you for sharing your post. I like how you incorporated Greek cultures concept of sexuality. In fact history and culture have been very influential in how human sexuality is perceived. I like how your post talks about "The Label Theory" you state in your post "There is a theory called the "Label Theory" and it basically states that "people come to identify and behave in ways that reflect how others label them". This is definitely a challenge for […]

Oppression in the LGBTQ Community

The LGBTQ community in America has been faced with discrimination for decades. This discrimination is called heterosexism. The LGBTQ community has a long history of being attacked both physically and verbally by heterosexual communities that want to oppress their rights. The oppression of the LGBTQ community has been going on for several decades, and there is still very apparent hatred towards the group and its allies. The LGBTQ community and their allies have faced discrimination in their everyday lives, even […]

Related topic

Additional example essays.

• The Road not Taken Poem Analysis
• Homeschooling vs Public School
• "Mother to Son" by Langston Hughes
• Discrimination in Workplace
• Gender Inequality in the Medical Field
• Gender Inequality in the Workplace
• “Their Eyes Were Watching God”: Feminism and the Embracement of Self Love
• Nature's Role in Their Eyes Were Watching God
• Explication of The Poem “Harlem” by Langston Hughes
• Followership and Servant Leadership
• Logical Fallacies in Letter From Birmingham Jail
• Martin Luther King vs Malcolm X

How to Write an Essay About LGBT

Understanding the lgbt community.

Before writing an essay about the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) community, it's important to understand the history, struggles, and achievements of this group. The LGBT community represents a diverse range of identities and experiences, and it's crucial to recognize the complexity and nuances within this community. Begin your essay by defining what LGBT stands for and discuss the evolution of the community and its identity over time. It's also important to acknowledge the historical context of LGBT rights, including the challenges faced and the milestones achieved in the fight for equality and acceptance.

Developing a Thesis Statement

A strong essay on the LGBT community should be anchored by a clear, concise thesis statement. This statement should present a specific viewpoint or argument about the LGBT community. For example, you might discuss the impact of legal recognition of same-sex marriage, analyze the representation of LGBT individuals in media, or explore the challenges faced by transgender individuals. Your thesis will guide the direction of your essay and provide a structured approach to your analysis.

Gathering Supporting Evidence

To support your thesis, gather evidence from a variety of sources, including academic research, historical documents, and current news articles. This might include data on LGBT rights and public opinion, studies on the psychological impact of societal acceptance or rejection, or examples of LGBT representation in popular culture. Use this evidence to support your thesis and build a persuasive argument. Be sure to consider various perspectives and address potential counterarguments to your thesis.

Analyzing Challenges and Progress

Dedicate a section of your essay to analyzing both the challenges faced by the LGBT community and the progress made over the years. Discuss issues such as discrimination, mental health, and societal acceptance, as well as the successes in legal rights and increased visibility and representation. Explore how these challenges and achievements vary across different cultures and countries, highlighting the global aspect of LGBT issues.

Concluding the Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your discussion and restating your thesis in light of the evidence provided. Your conclusion should tie together your analysis and emphasize the significance of understanding and supporting the LGBT community. You might also want to suggest areas for future research, policy development, or social action to continue advancing LGBT rights and acceptance.

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

After completing your essay, review and refine it for clarity and coherence. Ensure that your arguments are well-structured and supported by evidence. Check for grammatical accuracy and ensure that your essay flows logically from one point to the next. Consider seeking feedback from peers, educators, or experts in LGBT studies to further improve your essay. A well-written essay on the LGBT community will not only demonstrate your understanding of the topic but also your ability to engage with complex social and cultural issues.

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Chapter 2: Thirty Years of Queer Theory

Jennifer miller.

This chapter has mapped the emergence of queer theory over time, and across disciplines, based on new ways of thinking that emerged out of the lived experiences of diverse LGBTQ people. Both activism and theory are historically and geographically contingent, tethered to time, space, and the material body in its specificity.

Queer theory is flexible enough to account for differences of race, class, gender, and nation; although it does not always do so. It does, however, have at its founding, and through the twists and turns of its development, an investment in radical social change tethered to a belief that since gender, sexual, and other forms of social hierarchy are reproduced and regulated through discourse and social institutions they can be changed – we can do better.

Candela Citations

• Thirty Years of Queer Theory. Authored by : Jennifer Miller. Provided by : University of Texas at Arlington. Located at : https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-lgbtq-studies . License : CC BY: Attribution

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20 Must-Read Queer Essay Collections

Laura Sackton

Laura Sackton is a queer book nerd and freelance writer, known on the internet for loving winter, despising summer, and going overboard with extravagant baking projects. In addition to her work at Book Riot, she reviews for BookPage and AudioFile, and writes a weekly newsletter, Books & Bakes , celebrating queer lit and tasty treats. You can catch her on Instagram shouting about the queer books she loves and sharing photos of the walks she takes in the hills of Western Mass (while listening to audiobooks, of course).

View All posts by Laura Sackton

I love essay collections, and I love queer books, so obviously I love queer essay collections. An essay collection can be so many things. It can be an opportunity to examine one particular subject in depth. Or it can be a wonderful messy mix of dozens of themes and ideas. The books on this list are a mix of both. Some hone in on an author’s own life, while others look outward, examining current events, history, and pop culture. Some are funny, some are very serious, and some are decidedly both.

In making this list, I used two criteria: 1) queer authors and 2) queer content. There are, of course, plenty of wonderful essay collections out there by queer authors that aren’t about queerness. But this list focuses on essays that explore queerness in all its messy glory. You’ll also find essays here about many other things: tornadoes, step-parenthood, the internet, tarot, activism, online dating, to name just a few. But taken together, the essays in each of these books add up to a queer whole.

I limited myself to living authors, and even so, there were so many amazing queer essay collections I wanted to include but couldn’t. This is just a drop in the bucket, but it’s a great place to start if you need more queer essays in your life — and who doesn’t?

Personal Queer Essay Collections

How to Write An Autobiographical Novel by Alexander Chee

It’s hard for me to put my finger on the thing that elevates an essay collection from a handful of individual pieces to a cohesive book. But Chee obviously knows what that thing is, because this book builds on itself. He writes about growing roses and working odd jobs and AIDS activism and drag and writing a novel, and each of these essays is singularly moving. But as a whole they paint a complex portrait of a slice of the writer’s life. They inform and converse with each other, and the result is a book you can revisit again and again, always finding something new.

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I Hope We Choose Love by Kai Cheng Thom

In this collection of beautiful and thought-provoking essays, Kai Cheng Thom explores the messy, far-from-perfect realties of queer and trans communities and community movements. She writes about what many community organizers, activists, and artists don’t want to talk about: the hard stuff, the painful stuff, the bad times. It’s not all grim, but it’s very real. Thom addresses transphobia, racism, and exclusion, but she also writes about the particular joys she’s found in creating community and family with other queer and trans people of color. This is a must-read for anyone involved in social justice work, or immersed in queer community.

Here For It by R. Eric Thomas

If you enjoy books that blend humor and heartfelt wisdom, you’ll love this collection. R. Eric Thomas writes about coming of age as a writer on the internet, his changing relationship to Christianity, the messy intersections of his queer Black identity. It’s a lovey mix of grappling and quips. It’s full of pop culture references and witty asides, as well as moving, vulnerable personal stories.

The Rib Joint by Julia Koets

This slim memoir-in-essays is entirely personal. Although Koets does weave some history, pop culture, and religion into the work — everything from the history of organs to Sally Ride — her gaze is mostly focused inward. The essays are short and beautifully written; she often leaves the analysis to the reader, simply letting distinct and sometimes contradictory ideas and images sit next to each other on the page. She writes about her childhood in the South, the hidden and often invisible queer relationships she had as a teenager and young adult, secrets and closets, and the tensions and overlaps between religion and queerness.

I Can’t Date Jesus by Michael Arceneaux

This is another fantastic humorous essay collection. Arceneaux somehow manages to be laugh-out-loud funny while also delivering nuanced cultural critique and telling vulnerable stories from his life. He writes about growing up in Houston, family relationships, coming out, and so much more. The whole book wrestles with how to be a young Black queer person striving to make meaning in the world. His second collection, I Don’t Want to Die Poor , is equally wonderful.

Tomboyland by Melissa Faliveno

If you’re wondering, this is the book that contains an essay about tornadoes. It also contains a gorgeous essay about pantry moths (among other things). Those are just two of the many subjects Faliveno plumbs the depths of in this remarkable book. She writes about gender expression and how her relationship with gender has changed throughout her life, about queer desire and family, about Midwestern culture, about place and home, about bisexuality and bi erasure. Her far-ranging essays challenge mainstream ideas about what queer lives do and do not look like. She asks more questions than she answers, delving into the murky terrain of desire and identity.

Something That May Shock and Discredit You by Daniel M. Lavery

Is this book even an essay collection? It is, and it isn’t. Some of these pieces are deeply personal stories about Lavery’s experience with transition. Others are trans retellings of mythology, literature, and film. All of it is weird and smart and impossibly to classify. Lavery examines the idea of transition from every angle, creating new stories about trans history, trans identity, and transformation itself.

Brown White Black by Nishta J. Mehra

If there’s one thing I love most in an essay collection, it’s when an author allows contradictions and messy, fraught truths to live next to each other on the page. I love when an essayist asks more questions than they answer. That’s what Mehra does in this book. An Indian American woman married to a white woman and raising a Black son, she writes with openness and curiosity about her particular family. She explores how race, sexuality, gender, class, and religion impact her life and most intimate relationships, as well as American culture more broadly.

Blood, Marriage, Wine, & Glitter by S. Bear Bergman

This essay collection is an embodiment of queer joy, of what it means to become part of a queer family. Every essay captures some aspect of the complexity and joy that is queer family-making. Bergman writes about being a trans parent, about beloved friends, about the challenges of partnership, about intimacy in myriad forms. His tone is warm and open-hearted and joyful and celebratory.

Forty-Three Septembers by Jewelle Gómez

In these contemplative essays, Jewell Gómez explores the various pieces of her life as a Black lesbian, writing about family, aging, and her own history. Into these personal stories she weaves an analysis of history and current events. She writes about racism and homophobia, both within and outside of queer and Black communities, and about her life as an artist and poet, and how those identities, too, have shaped the way she sees the world.

Pass With Care by Cooper Lee Bombardier

Set mostly against the backdrop of queer culture in 1990s San Francisco, this memoir in essays is about trans identity, being an artist, masculinity, queer activism, and so much more. Bombardier brings particular places and times to life (San Francisco in the 1990s, but other places as well), but he also connects those times and experiences to the present in really interesting ways. He recognizes the importance of queer and trans history, while also exploring the possibilities of queer and trans futures.

Care Work by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha

This is a beautiful, rigorous collection of essays about disability justice centering disabled queer and trans people of color. From an exploration of the radical care collectives Piepzna-Samarasinha and other queer and trans BIPOC have organized to an essay where examines the problems with the “survivor industrial complex,” every one of these pieces is full of wisdom, anger, transformation, radical celebration. It challenged me on so many levels, in the best possible way. It’s a must read for anyone engaged in any kind of activist work.

I’m Afraid of Men by Vivek Shraya

I’m cheating a little bit here, because technically I’d classify this book as one essay, singular, rather than a collection of essays. But I’m including it anyway, because it is brilliant, and because I think it exemplifies just what a good essay can do, what a powerful form of writing it can be. By reflection on various experiences Shraya has had with men over the course of her life, she examines the connections and intersections between sexism, transmisogyny, toxic masculinity, and sexual violence. It’s a heavy read, but Shraya’s writing is anything but. It’s agile and graceful, flowing and jumping between disparate thoughts and ideas. This is a book-length essay you can read in one sitting, but it’ll leave you with enough to think about for many days afterward.

Gender Failure by Ivan E. Coyote and Rae Spoon

In this collaborative essay collection, trans writers and performers Ivan E. Coyote and Rae Spoon play with both gender and form. The book is a combination of personal essays, short vignettes, song lyrics, and images. Using these various kinds of storytelling, they both recount their own particular journeys around gender — how their genders have changed throughout their lives, the ways the gender binary has continually harmed them both, and the many communities, people, and experiences that have contributed to joyful self-expression and gender freedom.

The Groom Will Keep His Name by Matt Ortile

Matt Ortile uses his experiences as a gay Filipino immigrant as a lens in these witty, insightful, and moving essays. By telling his own stories — of dating, falling in love, struggling to “fit in” — he illuminates the intersections among so many issues facing America right now (and always). He writes about the model minority myth and many other myths he told himself about assimilation, sex, power, what it means to be an American. It’s a heartfelt collection of personal essays that engage meaningfully, and critically, with the wider world.

Wow, No Thank You by Samantha Irby

I’m not a big fan of humorous essays in this vein, heavy on pop culture references I do not understand and full of snark. But I absolutely love Irby’s books, which is about the highest praise I can give. I honestly think there is something in here for everyone. Irby is just so very much herself: she writes about whatever the hell she wants to, whether that’s aging or the weirdness of small town America or snacks (there is a lot to say about snacks). And whatever the subject, she’s always got something funny or insightful or new or just super relatable to say.

Queer Essay Anthologies

She Called Me Woman Edited by Azeenarh Mohammed, Chitra Nagarajan, and Aisha Salau

This anthology collects 30 first-person narratives by queer Nigerian women. The essays reflect a range of experiences, capturing the challenges that queer Nigerian women face, as well as the joyful lives and communities they’ve built. The essays explore sexuality, spirituality, relationships, money, love, societal expectations, gender expression, and so much more.

Untangling the Knot: Queer Voices on Marriage, Relationships & Identity by Carter Sickels

When gay marriage was legalized, I felt pretty ambivalent about it, even though I knew I was supposed to be excited. But I have never wanted or cared about marriage. Reading this book made me feel so seen. That’s not to say it’s anti-marriage — it isn’t! It’s a collection of personal essays from a diverse range of queer people about the families they’ve made. Some are traditional. Some are not. The essays are about marriages and friendships, parenthood and siblinghood, polyamorous relationships and monogamous ones. It’s a book that celebrates the different forms queer families take, never valuing any one kind of family or relationship over another.

Nonbinary: Memoirs of Gender and Identity Edited by Micah Rajunov and Scott Duane

This book collects essays from 30 nonbinary writers, and trans and gender-nonconforming writers whose genders fall outside the binary. The writers inhabit a diverse range of identity and experience in terms of race, age, class, sexuality. Some of the essays are explicitly about gender identity, others are about family and relationships, and still others are about activism and politics. As a whole, the book celebrates the expansiveness of trans experiences, and the many ways there are to inhabit a body.

Moving Truth(s): Queer and Transgender Desi Writings on Family Edited by Aparajeeta ‘Sasha’ Duttchoudhury and Rukie Hartman

This anthology brings together a collection of diverse essays by queer and trans Desi writers. The pieces explore family in all its shapes and iterations. Contributors write about community, friendship, culture, trauma, healing. It’s a wonderfully nuanced collection. Though there is a thread that runs through the whole book — queer and trans Desi identity — the range of viewpoints, styles and experiences represented makes it clear how expansive identity is.

Looking for more queer books? I made a list of 40 of my favorites . If you’re looking for more essay collections to add to your list, check out 10 Must-Read Essay Collections by Women , and The Best Essays from 2019 . And if you’re not in the mood for a whole book right now, why not try one of these free essays available online (including some great queer ones)?

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