Chris Bartlett

What Does "Queer" Mean Anyway? Chris Bartlett

Recipient of three 2016 Rainbow Awards including "Best LGBT Book," " 1st Place: LGBT Non-Fiction and Poetry," and "1st Place: Bisexual, Transgender & LGBT Debut." Do you know what "queer" means? Do you know how to use it correctly and politely? Does your tongue trip over itself when someone says "transgender?" In this clear and concise text Chris Bartlett provides direct explanations for how to use and interpret LGBTQIA+ identifications. Writing to those who are unsure of how to talk about alternative sexualities and gender, the author uses case studies and historical examples to unpack this often misused and misunderstood vocabulary. For much of his life Chris felt unsure of how to politely address and to interact with people who place themselves outside of the traditionally encouraged heterosexual mold. This fear of appearing ignorant or rude led him to avoid interacting with some people and prevented him from sticking up for others when he should have. The truth is that being uncomfortable and unsure around a new concept does not make anyone a bad person but when that mindset prevents one from being fair and equitable to others then there is a problem. After reading this Quick and Dirty Guide to LGBTQIA+ vocabulary you'll be confident enough to ask polite questions about gender and sexuality and informed enough to understand the answers.