Queer people have a complicated relationships with the word “faggot.” While we’re at a moment in time where lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are slowly gaining rights and visibility, that doesn’t mean the stigma surrounding queer identity has dissipated. And, for some, the words that have historically been used to inflict pain on our community still hold a lot of power.
Some find power in taking back or reclaiming words — like “queer.” I use the word queer because I find it the best way to describe the vast spectrum of experiences and identities that receive visibility in our community — and because I think the word is the most inclusive. However, the word “faggot” still inspires a mixed response within the community, and that response is often due to context and intent.
Cut Video made similar videos about the word gay and the phrase being a man.