The power of language can never be overstated. It is our beliefs, values, and ideas, captured in a moment for others to understand. When discussing a social dilemma as grand as race, gender, women’s rights or sexuality we need to use the same language. We need to be talking about the same thing if we want to work together to solve the same dilemma.
In this instalment, I'll be exploring a simple hypothesis: that gay isn't something you are, it's something you 'do'.
Think about that for a second. Think about how many more men are invited into the conversation by simply allowing the term 'gay' to describe an act rather than an attribute. I believe that it's here in this modern language space, amidst the semantics of it all, that a new conversation is just waiting to happen. Let's start by looking at what 'gay' means today through the lens of gender and social normality.
All data referenced is from a combination of face to face interviews and existing and new research.
Nathan helps people to express themselves at home, at school, and in the workplace, all around the world. He's passionate about thinking, and engages in it regularly. He's not overly fond of writing in the third person though. It's weird. Connect with him on Facebook to continue the conversation, make a video at colourbeat.com, or even share a dance with him at movewithcolour.com!
Gender consists of four main components: biological sex, identity, expression, and attraction.
'Gay' could be better used to refer to something you do, not something you are.
People identify as 'gay' to allow others who share a similar attraction to find them, but anyone can 'do' gay behaviour.
