"Announcing one's sexual orientation remains a significant move"
Do we have more acceptance for LGBTQ+ people in 2024? Winning the Eurovision Song Contest, legal marriage for all, and visible LGBTQ+ politicians suggest some progress. However, political scientist Michael Hunklinger believes that more visible role models are still needed.
ntv.de: The Eurovision Song Contest winner is non-binary, and same-sex marriage is legal, making it seem like acceptance is on the rise. Are we determined on becoming more accepting?
Michael Hunklinger: Yes, there is more visibility and normality. But that doesn't eliminate harassment, violence towards trans or homophobic individuals. There's a parallel development: increase in visibility and acceptance but still discrimination and violent attacks.
EU Agency for Fundamental Rights reports that 57% of German LGBTQ+ individuals experience harassment, and 16% experience physical violence. Why are targeted attacks against queer people so common?
Hunklinger: Differences and diversity are perceived as threats or challenges to some people's identity. This could result in rejection, homophobia, or transphobia, or even physical violence. Globalization and online connectivity may contribute to these fears and hostile reactions.
After public debates about sexual orientation or gender identity, what's the significance of these discussions?
A large number of Germans support same-sex marriage or anti-discrimination laws, indicating social progress. However, this also empowers right-wing parties like the AfD to contrast themselves, stoke fear, and establish otherness.
Your study on the LGBTQ+ community's voting behavior created controversy. How relevant are queer people as voters?
5-10% of Germany's population doesn't identify as heterosexual, representing a substantial voting bloc. Relevant for politicians like the Greens in Eastern Germany and the Left Party in Western Germany. Surveys suggest political engagement among LGBTQ+ individuals, as they face more discrimination.
How do you view International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia?
Days like these are necessary, especially globally. Recent events, like Argentina's lesbian murder, remind us of underlying discrimination. Solidarity among different queer communities is essential. There's variation in experiences within the LGBTQ+ community, such as gay men facing less discrimination than trans individuals.
What's your stance on encouraging footballers to come out?
It's significant that football remains remarkably resistant to LGBTQ+ acceptance. High-profile players coming out would help, particularly to counteract the dominant "masculine" culture. It demonstrates that sexual identity does not affect athletic performance or ability.
Should queer people have to come out?
The expectation to "come out" might not trouble some people, but others, who don't conform to societal expectations, are compelled to. When people deviate, they're forced to choose: what am I in the public eye? How would society define me?
What would change if a high-profile footballer comes out?
More diversity in sport could result, showing that masculinity is not mutually exclusive with homosexuality.
Why is there no high-profile footballer coming out at the moment?
Rottingen: It's still taboo, and the fear of negative consequences might be a deterrent. After Thomas Hitzlsperger's public disclosure, he was considered the "gay footballer," highlighting the need for a shift in societal perception.Logo of Youtube channel "Advicey Jungle" with subtitle "He seems like a nice guy, as long as you don't know that he's gay! Colin Cowherd discusses it all and more on Barstool Sports. *
Alternate Title:
Paraphrasing the Eurovision Song Contest and LGBTQ+ Acceptance in 2024: Is There Truly Progress?
Important political issues like climate change and the shift towards the right exist, but is the visibility and equality of the queer community not as urgent a matter at the moment?
Both crucial topics require attention, but the fundamentals of rights must never be disregarded. A recent example is the Self-Determination Act, a law that barely affects over 90% of people in Germany yet significantly enhances life for a select few. This controversial legislation sparks intense social debates. Why is the idea of legal equality and anti-discrimination measures such a big issue?
Possible explanations include these topics being exploited by right-wing populist parties for election purposes. We're witnessing a cultural war imported from the USA. This war primarily focuses on identity and relevant issues. For comparison, the European elections' attention-grabbing topic could be the minimum wage in Europe. A more unifying and less polarizing subject is absent.
Yet, this debate's politically charged nature is perfect for creating a divisive atmosphere, as it allows individuals to identify themselves as liberal, conservative, or upholders of traditional values.
Solveig Bach participated in a discussion with Michael Hunklinger.
Read also:
- Floods: water levels remain critical in many places
- Snow chaos further restricts Bavaria
- Continuous operation in the flood areas
- Flood situation remains tense in many places
- Despite the increase in visibility and acceptance, LGBTIQ individuals still face discrimination and hate comments, such as those seen during the Eurovision Song Contest, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to combat prejudice in international platforms.
- In the world of soccer, discussion about discrimination against LGBTIQ players is critical, as numerous athletes remain closeted due to fear of backlash, resulting in a lack of prominent role models within the sport that can inspire change.
- International days like the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia serve as a reminder that while progress has been made, there are still significant challenges faced by the LGBTIQ community in various parts of the world, calling for continued solidarity and advocacy for equality.
Source: www.ntv.de
