Do As I Say, Not As I Do
Internalized Homophobia within the GOP
In recent years, discussions around LGBTQ+ rights and representation have become increasingly prominent in political discourse. Particularly, within the Republican Party, the landscape regarding LGBTQ+ issues has been complex and often contentious. Recent events have the phrase, “Do as I say, not as I do,” running through my head, because a not-so-hidden motivator for the GOP seems to be internalized homophobia – a phenomenon that warrants deeper exploration.
Last week, a story broke about Christian Ziegler, Florida’s GOP chairman and his wife Bridget Ziegler, a co-founder of Moms of Liberty. If you are not familiar with Moms for Liberty or the Ziegler scandal here’s a summary: Bridget Zeigler was a co-founder and director of the organization responsible for much of the “don’t say gay” rules put into schools, particularly in Florida, as well as banning books that have elements of LGBTQ+ characters or relationships. The organization also makes blanket statements about trans people and members of the queer community being “sexual predators'' and “groomers.” Despite their positions in the GOP and anti-LGBTQ+ organizations, Christian and Bridget were in an ongoing sexual relationship with another woman who lived with them. The couple’s girlfriend recently accused Christian of raping her while Bridget was not present.
Understanding Internalized Homophobia
Internalized homophobia refers to the adoption and internalization of societal prejudices and negative attitudes towards one's own sexual orientation or identity. For LGBTQ+ individuals within conservative environments, this struggle can be particularly profound. The clash between personal identity and political affiliation often creates a paradoxical situation that demands self-reflection. In the case of Bridget ``don't say gay” Ziegler, she was in a queer relationship with a woman for many years, a relationship that her openly anti-LGBTQ+ husband supported and participated in. Which begs the question why is Brigit’s queerness acceptable while the queerness of others is not? Perhaps one answer is that homophobia is an indicator of arousal and attraction to same-sex partners. (A 1996 study and many more since have clearly demonstrated this phenomena.)
It is easy to assume that the situation with the Zieglers is rare. How many queer people are actually GOP members openly fostering hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community? It’s safe to say that closeted queer people grappling with internalized homophobia are innumerable. In fact, whenever a GOP convention is held, the gay men’s hook-up app, Grindr goes down. That’s right - when also those anti-LGBTQ+ Republicans come to town, Grindr gets overloaded. I find this both hilarious and enraging.
The GOP and LGBTQ+ Rights
The Republican Party has historically been associated with more conservative values, including outdated misogynistic views on marriage and family. This stance has translated into policy positions that, at times, conflict with the advancement of LGBTQ+ rights. Instances of opposition to marriage equality, restrictions on transgender rights, and resistance to anti-discrimination protections have been notable within the GOP. While not all Republicans align with these views, the party's platform has often reflected a stance that seems contradictory to LGBTQ+ inclusion and equality. This clash between personal identity and political allegiance can create an internal struggle for LGBTQ+ individuals within the party. Which is both frustrating and heartbreaking, because rather than being the voice of change in the GOP, queer individuals not only perpetuate hate, stigma, and marginalizing legislation which harms people like themselves and people like myself, but they normalize it by being queer themselves.
Individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ within the GOP must grapple with conflicting emotions. This internal conflict can lead to various outcomes, including the suppression of one's own identity, advocating for policies that directly contradict personal beliefs, or navigating a delicate balance between political affiliation and support for LGBTQ+ rights. It's essential to recognize that these struggles are not monolithic and can vary widely among individuals. Cisgender gay men and women, for example, might find their own brand of queerness as “acceptable,” but find themselves pushing trans folk out of their umbrella of inclusion. The repulsive “gays against groomers” organization came from these kind of transphobic beliefs.
Impact on LGBTQ+ Representation and Policy
The presence of internalized homophobia within the GOP most likely influences the party's approach to LGBTQ+ issues. While some Republican leaders advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion, others' internalized biases may hinder progress in these areas.
Part of the issue here is culture. Our greater American culture has generally come to accept the LGBQ+ community for the most part. I left out the T for a reason. Trans-identifying peoples are still disproportionately singled-out, marginalized, and killed more than any other LGBTQ+ demographic. Despite greater national acceptance, the culture of the GOP deviates from American culture in a few glaring ways, one of which is their rhetoric about the LGBTQ+ community.
I know for a fact that belonging and acceptance are essential for healthy self-esteem and wellbeing. So I can imagine how terrifying it must be for queer members of the GOP who have either grown up within this conservative vortex, or who live within conservative communities. I grew up as a closeted queer kid who truly believed that I was going to burn in hell because the adults around me constantly made disparaging comments about LGBTQ+ people. I can tell you first hand, that feeling different can be terrifying. Especially if you identify with people that your community openly hates.
Organized Hate
Organized hate groups or political movements often target marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, based on prejudice, bigotry, or perceived differences. These groups might propagate misinformation, discrimination, and violence against these communities, fostering an environment of fear and discrimination. These groups use various platforms to spread their messages of hate, which can contribute to the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes, discrimination, and even violent acts against individuals belonging to marginalized groups.
Moms of Liberty is thus a hate group. They have singled out the LGBTQ+ community; spreading misinformation, instilling fear, and advocating for legislation harmful to both children and the LGBTQ+ community.
Navigating Change and Progress
Addressing internalized homophobia within any political party requires introspection, open dialogue, and a commitment to understanding diverse perspectives. Encouraging conversations that bridge the gap between personal identity and political ideology can foster greater empathy and acceptance. Individuals within the GOP advocating for LGBTQ+ rights can serve as catalysts for change. By challenging internalized biases and fostering inclusivity within their party, they pave the way for a more diverse and accepting political landscape.
The relationship between internalized homophobia and the GOP reflects a complex interplay of personal identity and political affiliation. Navigating these intersections demands introspection, empathy, and a willingness to confront biases within political ideologies. Combating organized hate involves efforts to dismantle these groups' platforms and ideologies by promoting tolerance, advocating for policies that protect marginalized communities, and fostering a culture of respect and empathy.
It's important to support individuals who might be struggling with internalized homophobia and to stand against hate in all its forms. By promoting acceptance, understanding, and equality, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate society for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Creating spaces for dialogue, promoting understanding, and advocating for policies that uphold LGBTQ+ rights are crucial steps in addressing internalized homophobia within the GOP. Ultimately, fostering inclusivity and embracing diversity can lead to a more equitable and compassionate political environment for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
On a more personal note, I want to say to the Zeiglers and to the legions of old closeted Republicans that use Grindr – I will always fight for your rights. No matter what you say or do, I will never stop fighting to make it safe for all of us to be ourselves, and love who we want to. Oh, and fuck the GOP.
Link to original article in the Florida Trident.