Queer

Queer is a term that was originally used as a slur in English, but is now often used positively as a self-description. It is commonly used as an umbrella term for people whose sexual orientation, romantic orientation, or gender identity does not fit social norms. Depending on the person, context, and region, the term can be understood in different ways.

Queer also refers to an academic and political perspective that critically examines fixed categories of gender and sexuality. Queer theory studies how norms are formed, how exclusion works, and how different forms of discrimination interact. As a self-identification, the term should be used respectfully and only when it has been chosen by the person concerned.