Open Forum: The Concept of a Queer Nation

While there has not been much talk or serious consideration among queer people to create a gay homeland, there has been some discussion whether joking or fantasy about the concept. A nation state owned and operated by LGBT people, where people are free to express their sexual orientation and gender identity, while being affirmed. A queer homeland would serve as a refuge for those who are discriminated against in other countries, and would bring an LGBT perspective to the United Nations delegation.

In 2004 Australian activists declared the Cato Islands the "Gay and Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Sea" since this deserted island was not being utilized. While this was merely symbolic it once again brought up the discussion and perhaps dreams of many LGBT people. There are even organizations such as the Gay Homeland Foundation, Gay and Lesbian Commonwealth Kingdom, Unified Gay Tribe, and Gay Parallel Republic embrace the idea of a queer nation state although lack the funding, movement, or credibility to push forward their agenda.

What do you make of the concept of a queer homeland? Would it help create a safer world for LGBT people or only further segregate queer people from the populace? Would you support or even immigrate to such a country if it was created?

Word of the Gay: "Queer Nationalism"

"Queer Nationalism" - The movement/dream for a homeland for LGBTQ people. Australian activists declared the Cato Islands the "Gay and Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Sea" in 2004. Organizations such as the Gay and Lesbian Commonwealth Kingdom, Unified Gay Tribe, and Gay Homeland Foundation embrace the idea of a Queer nation state. The premise is that Queers have a right to a safe and national homeland to embrace their identities freely and grow their culture. They also want recognition by the United Nations and a country where LGBTQ people have all the rights that are not afforded to them in other countries around the world.

*Photo courtesy of proggie off of creative commons