“Such a Queer Thing”: A Love Poem for Queer and Trans Young Adults

Abstract

In a sociopolitical environment where LGBTQ+ rights are under attack, we are in critical need of research that challenges stigma and promotes joy for queer and trans people. Research poems utilize qualitative texts to disseminate findings via poetry, which can reduce stigma, promote empowerment, and tell a story. Interviews with LGBTQ+ college students (n = 32) explored their experiences coming to and thriving in healthy intimate relationships. The authors, a queer cisgender woman and a queer genderqueer person, created the poem using quotes to illustrate processes of understanding one’s identity, discovering love, navigating queer relationships, and self-discovery.