Words have power. Why are some okay but not others?
Background
Language has long been a tool of both power and oppression, and for LGBTQ+ people, certain words have been used to reinforce discrimination, exclusion, and stigma. Many of the slurs that are now being reclaimed had their origins in deeply harmful contexts, often linked to laws, medical diagnoses, and social prejudices that sought to censor LGBTQ+ identities.
The term queer was once a negative label for those who didn’t conform to traditional gender or sexuality norms. By the late 20th century, activists reclaimed it to celebrate diversity, though some older generations still find it uncomfortable. During the AIDS crisis in the 1980s and 90s, the activist group ACT UP popularised the phrase “We’re here, we’re queer, get used to it!”, turning the insult into a rallying cry for LGBTQ+ rights. Today, queer is widely used in both activism and academia, particularly in Queer Theory, a field that challenges traditional ideas of gender and sexuality. Similarly, “dyke” was used as a slur against lesbians, implying aggression or masculinity. Many lesbians have reclaimed it as a proud term, especially in events like Dyke Marches that promote visibility and empowerment. The word “f**” (or “f***ot”) has a particularly painful history, especially for gay men. While some within the community may use it among themselves, it hasn’t been reclaimed like “queer” or “dyke” due to its association with violence and discrimination.
Even neutral-sounding terms, like “homosexual,” carry historical baggage, as it was once used in medical contexts labelling being gay as a mental disorder. Until 1973, the American Psychiatric Association listed homosexuality as a mental illness, reinforcing the stigma that LGBTQ+ people needed to be "cured." This illustrates that language is tied to power, identity, and resistance. While some terms have been successfully reclaimed, their impact and significance vary, making it essential to understand their history in shaping LGBTQ+ identities today.
Reclaiming Language: Why and How
Language holds power, and reclaiming once-hurtful words is a way for LGBTQ+ people to take control of their identities. Instead of letting slurs remain symbols of shame, many have been transformed into expressions of pride and solidarity.
Reclamation happens through activism, pop culture, and everyday conversations. Shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race have brought LGBTQ+ slang into the mainstream, while academics like Judith Butler have helped strengthen queer as a valid identity in Queer Theory.
A 2017 study in the Journal of Language and Social Psychology found that LGBTQ+ individuals who use reclaimed slurs among themselves report a stronger sense of community identity. However, those who have personally experienced verbal abuse related to these words are far less likely to embrace them. This highlights how deeply personal and context-dependent language reclamation can be.
Controversies and Considerations
Reclaiming language is powerful, but it’s also complicated. What’s empowering for one person might still feel offensive to another, and there’s no universal rule on who can use reclaimed words or how they should evolve.
One significant debate is whether reclaimed slurs should only be used by those within the LGBTQ+ community. A lesbian might proudly call herself a dyke, or gay friends might joke about being f***, but if an outsider uses these words, it can still feel offensive or even threatening. Context and intent matter, but history carries weight; for many, these words still have painful associations. Some think that even within the community, certain words carry too much harm to be reclaimed fully.
Generational differences also play a role. At the same time, queer is widely accepted today—especially among younger LGBTQ+ people—many older individuals remember it solely as a slur. A 2022 GLAAD report found that 67% of LGBTQ+ people aged 18-24 are comfortable identifying as queer, compared to only 32% of those over 50. This divide highlights how language changes over time and how its impact lingers.
Another discussion centres on whether reclaiming words diminishes their potential harm. If you use a slur in a positive way, does that make others feel that is it okay to use it negatively? Some argue that normalising slurs or using them more casually may accidentally promote their negative usage. In contrast, others say that taking ownership of language can help dismantle oppression by taking the word's power back. Ultimately, the act of reclamation is a personal decision, with varying opinions. The key takeaway is respecting how individuals define themselves and understanding that the language they use is not always appropriate for your own use. Many words are still considered far too offensive to be used casually or in group settings.
Why Reclamation Matters Today
Reclaiming language isn’t just about words—it’s about identity, resistance, and empowerment. The words LGBTQ+ people choose to describe themselves can shape self-perception, create community, and challenge societal norms. By taking control of language that was once used against them, individuals and communities assert their right to define themselves on their own terms.
One of the biggest reasons reclamation matters is that it removes the power of slurs to harm. When LGBTQ+ people embrace a word like queer, it shifts from an insult to an identity, making it harder for outsiders to use it as a weapon. This linguistic resistance has played a role in many civil rights movements, proving that language can be as powerful a tool for change as it is for harm.
Reclaimed words also serve as symbols of visibility and pride. However, reclaiming language is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Not everyone finds empowerment in these words, and that’s okay. The key is choice—people should be free to define their identities without judgment. Respecting personal preferences while recognising the power of reclaimed language is essential to creating a more inclusive world.
Language evolves, and the reclamation of LGBTQ+ slurs shows how communities control their narratives. Some individuals gain strength from using words that once harmed them, while others may still feel hurt. There’s no universal right or wrong about reclaimed language—it’s personal. Respecting individual identities, preferred language, and the historical significance of these terms is crucial--as is knowing the right context and place for experimenting with language.
At UHI and HISA, we wholeheartedly value inclusivity, diversity, and the power of open conversations. We are committed to upholding the student code of conduct and to championing our students right to learn and socialize in a welcoming, inclusive environment. If you’ve ever faced challenges with your identity, language, or the weight of hurtful words, know that HISA is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're looking for a caring listener, helpful guidance, or direction to LGBTQ+ resources, we’re always ready to help.
For more support, contact HISA Advice Service or explore UHI’s Student Services—you’re never alone in your journey.