40 People Who Are Totally Unaware That LGBTQ People Exist
Are they just playing ignorant, or are they really?
Even though the LGBTQ community dates back to ancient civilizations, some people are still unaware of its existence. Or maybe they are just pretending not to notice… Who can tell?
The first recorded same-sex couple in history was ancient Egyptian royal servants Khnumhotep and Niankhkhnum, who lived circa 2400 BCE. Still, some people stubbornly refuse to believe that same-sex love is as old as humanity itself.
A subreddit called "Sappho And Her Friend" is dedicated to "historical and other LGBTQ erasure from academia and other spaces," and they provide tons of hilarious and worrying examples of how ignorant people are about LGBTQ issues. We've compiled a list of 40 of the best ones, and we know you will love them.
1. Oh, dad
zyco_2. "Saw This On Facebook Today"
Guestyperson3. Totally straight...
miles_has_died
Cognitive Dissonance and Ignorance
The phenomenon of individuals being unaware of the existence of LGBTQ+ people can often be explained through cognitive dissonance. When confronted with information that contradicts their beliefs or knowledge, individuals may choose to ignore or reject new information to maintain their worldview.
Research published in the Journal of Social Issues suggests that cognitive dissonance can lead to an emotional response that prioritizes comfort over truth, resulting in a lack of awareness about important social issues.
4. No, I don't
yutus
5. Big fan
hesilf
6. Housemates
carypo
This ignorance might also stem from socialization within homogeneous communities, where exposure to diverse perspectives is limited. Psychological studies indicate that individuals raised in environments that reinforce specific beliefs are less likely to question these beliefs or seek out differing viewpoints.
In such cases, promoting diversity and inclusion in educational settings can help broaden perspectives and reduce ignorance about LGBTQ+ identities.
7. "Just A Theory"
redd_the_fox
8. Where is this soulmate?
lilmisswonderland
9. Just two bros...
Pearlspear
The Role of Media Representation
Media representation plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals. According to a study in the Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, positive representation in media can significantly influence societal attitudes and reduce stereotypes.
When individuals see diverse representations of LGBTQ+ lives in media, it can foster empathy and understanding, ultimately leading to increased awareness and acceptance.
It’s encouraging that the House of Representatives voted to pass the Equality Act, a law that would prohibit discrimination against individuals based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This act would enable teachers to implement a different, LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum.
However, what’s disappointing is the fact that the LGBTQ curriculum is still widely understated in classrooms. Only five states have announced that LGBTQ history would be taught in their public schools.
10. Medical Classmates....
Samy_fag
11. Poor grandson...
Drops-of-Q
12. "Just A Friendly Reminder, The History Books Accidentally Forgot A Few Pages From Anne's Diary"
isabelletjuh2005
To combat ignorance, it is essential to engage in educational initiatives that highlight LGBTQ+ history and experiences. Schools and community organizations can implement programs that promote awareness and understanding, thereby creating a more inclusive environment.
Workshops and discussions aimed at dismantling stereotypes and promoting empathy can foster a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ issues among those who may be unaware.
13. Got your back
Mysteryhuman1
On the other hand, implementation, financing, and educator training are often vague. Even though LGBTQ history is very long, its curriculum history isn’t.
Eliza Byard, a historian and the executive director of the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), says, “A lot of us grew up with history taught to reinforce the idea that only certain ways of being are natural. It is hugely important that every child understands the complexity of human history in all its different dimensions in order to have a full understanding of the past, present, and possible futures, and that’s what this is ultimately about.”
14. Just Guys Being Guys
Trey_Explainer
15. Very Good Friends
reverendjesus
Another crucial aspect of addressing ignorance is creating safe spaces where individuals can discuss their experiences and learn from one another. Research in community psychology shows that safe spaces can significantly enhance understanding and acceptance among diverse groups.
Facilitated dialogues that allow individuals to share their stories can help bridge gaps in knowledge and foster connections across different identities.
16. Why do they share storage space?
DearCup1
17. Love for mass transit
fortyfivepointseven
18. Hints?
jonathanjrouse
Developing Empathy Through Education
Education plays a vital role in developing empathy and reducing ignorance about LGBTQ+ individuals. Studies show that educational programs that include discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity can foster greater understanding and acceptance among participants.
Implementing comprehensive sex education that includes LGBTQ+ topics can help normalize these discussions, making it easier for individuals to engage in conversations about diversity.
19. Yeah, sure...
Drops-of-Q
20. Wonderful friendship
NoNHentaiSauce
21. Those cowboys.....
ginnyginginn
Ultimately, addressing ignorance about LGBTQ+ individuals requires a multifaceted approach that combines education, media representation, and community engagement. Psychological research underscores the importance of fostering empathy and understanding to create a more inclusive society.
By actively challenging stereotypes and promoting awareness, we can help dismantle the barriers that contribute to ignorance and discrimination.
22. "No, We're Sisters"
ThePetadactyl
23. Who?
Panny_Cakes
24. Two strangers....
giraffewoman
25. Comrades...
reddit.com
26. Yeah, it’s a rehearsal. Right...
JeremyTheRhino
27. Oh, I totally forgot about that…
Depressonsandwich
28. "Alter Ego"
Tranarchist21
29. Ignorance is bliss.
hi_im_kai101
30. Both Girls
Sarisongsalt
31. What were they up to?
Ohmalley-thealliecat
32. "I Checked The Comments; And Yeah, She Was Serious"
jje414
33. Travel friends...
womenlovebot
34. Yes, that's the most probable explanation...
Myriad_Infinity
35. Maybe because they are
urvipanda
36. "This Piece Is Called 'Brotherhood Of The Nations'"
Aronnaaxx707
37. Wow. A straight flag...
reddit.com
38. "My Friends Got Engaged This Weekend, A Distant Cousin Chimed In"
NotedCuriosity
39. Mother And Daughter.....
elfangorss
40. Just a hint...
jmai164
Psychological Analysis
The lack of awareness about LGBTQ+ individuals often reflects deeper societal issues related to cultural norms and limited exposure to diversity. It's crucial to understand that these patterns can change with education and engagement.
By promoting conversations around LGBTQ+ identities, we can help dismantle ignorance and foster a more inclusive environment for all.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Research consistently shows that education and exposure to diverse perspectives are key in combating ignorance about marginalized communities. According to American Psychological Association, fostering understanding and empathy is essential for creating a more inclusive society.
By prioritizing these efforts, we can promote awareness and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals, ultimately leading to a more equitable world.
