The meanings of words blur or completely change over time, and the line that separates acceptable and offensive language sometimes blends together. The social acceptance of the word “queer” seems to be in a transitional stage among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals. Brittney Hoffman, gender youth coordinator for the Gender Public Advocacy Coalition, said the social acceptance of the word “queer” is a generational question. The GenderPAC, a national human rights organization, promotes ending discrimination and violence on the basis of gender stereotypes. Hoffman said many people in older generations think the word is offensive. “Younger generations of activists and organizers are embracing the word more and more,” she said. Elaine Maccio, social work assistant professor, said older generations are more hesitant to use the term because it had a different meaning to them than it does for some people now. Maccio spoke Thursday at a program titled “Queer and Questioning Students in the Classroom.” The program was the last event of a three-part faculty enrichment series covering several diversity issues on campus. Marco Barker, Vice Provost Katrice Albert’s assistant, organized the program. He said he wants the program to engage people in dialogue about LGBT issues between students and faculty. Candace Creecy, Safe Space coordinator, and Susan Gardner, higher education assistant professor, also spoke at the event. Maccio said the term’s interpretation depends on the individual. “Our words change as societal norms change,” she said. Jennifer Fleming, Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians, Supporters United vice president, said she does not use the word “queer” because of personal preference. “I don’t use the word ‘queer’ because I feel that it still holds a negative connotation, and too many people still find it offensive,” she said. Mike McQueen, Associated Press New Orleans bureau chief, said The Associated Press uses neutral words and clearly communicates their meanings to their readers if something may be offensive. He said the AP avoids debate by using terms like gay, homosexual, bisexual and transgender. Hoffman said different racial class and gender demographics sometimes reclaim words that were “originally used by dominant society to put down a group or used in a derogatory way.” Maccio said it takes the power away from the word when minority populations use the term themselves.
—–Contact Angelle Barbazon at [email protected]