Meaning of “Not Gay as in Happy – But Queer as in F*ck You”
For me, the saying is a stand against assimilation and being a socially acceptable gay. It’s about not being an Ellen or a Rachel Maddow that heterosexuals feel safe letting into their homes on their television set. It is about being who you are without regard for needing society’s acceptance.
It’s not safe being queer. I get looks, snide remarks, and was even assaulted. It brings on a different meaning when someone has violated your rights and injured you for being who you are. It’s a “F*ck you” to those people who have a problem with you being queer. It’s a “F*ck yeah” to those who are with you.
It’s distinguishing your queerness from socially acceptable gayness. It’s reclaiming the word “queer” from being an insult to being a badge of honor. It’s about being proud to be here, to be you, to be queer. It’s aggressive, in your face, and punk as f*ck.
With that being said, I have had some people express how they just don’t like the patches because it feels “nasty” however they have never been faced with the nastiness the world dishes forth; the hate, violence, lack of acceptance, and intolerance for merely being yourself for being queer. It’s a stand against injustice and inequality. It’s standing up for who you are in a world that oppresses you. It’s saying “I’m here, I’m queer, and I’m not going anywhere.”
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Back patch
