Why Do LGBTQ+ Activists Persist in the Fight for Their Rights?

Untenable Podcast Episode: Embracing Diversity and Challenging Prejudice

LGBTQ+ rights activists tirelessly champion the cause of sexual and gender orientation equality.

Why? Because deep down, they know there is absolutely nothing wrong with who they are, how they feel, how they present themselves, or whom they love. The motivation to stand up and protest against injustice stems from a simple yet profound belief:

Anti-LGBTQ sentiments are fundamentally wrong.

All forms of prejudice, whether they are inherited from society, tradition, religion, politics, or family, often go unchallenged and unquestioned.

They are beliefs, instilled consciously or unconsciously, and they lack any factual basis. There is no quantifiable, empirical evidence that being queer or trans is morally or scientifically wrong. What exists instead are belief systems founded on flawed or lazy thinking.

These belief systems can lead to emotional harm and physical violence, often endured throughout the lives of queer individuals.

The Root of the Issue: Systemic Prejudice

Many social systems, including religion, politics, and family structures, have been built upon long-standing traditions and mythologies.

These traditions hold significant sway over both emotions and rational thought. However, this influence cannot be used as an excuse, especially when there is no scientific substantiation for individual prejudice. Every argument put forth by a prejudiced individual is subjective and belief-based, lacking a basis in objective reality.

No harm has ever been caused to society by someone identifying as anything other than straight.

Where is the evidence that the nuclear family or family structures are under threat, especially in a world where the population is exponentially increasing at the expense of the planet's ecology?

Facts and Logic: Celebrating Diversity

Facts and logic unequivocally support the idea that diversity is entirely normal.

The word "normal" has been weaponized to perpetuate hatred and prejudice against anyone who identifies outside the heterosexual spectrum. Ironically, one cannot truly understand what "straight" means without acknowledging diverse sexual and gender identities. The issue at hand is not about categorizing queer or trans as "bad" and straight as "good."

The real issue we are fighting against is fear and power dynamics.

Fear: The Source of Division

Fear often whispers, "You are not like me."

Fear thrives on the belief that being different equates to being dangerous.

Power: The Manipulation of Fear

Power asserts, "I can control this fear."

Power preys on group dynamics, convincing people that they need protection from those who don't belong to their group. In return for loyalty, it promises protection and privilege — by the person wielding the power.

Given all the above, how can we create a more inclusive and accepting society when people refuse to allow others to live their lives free from oppression?

While this article simplifies complex issues to some extent, it underscores the importance of embracing diversity and challenging prejudice.

It's crucial to recognize that the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights is not about coexistence, but rather about dismantling baseless beliefs rooted in fear and power.

*Context about the “1 Million March 4 Children” mentioned in the episode.