It is notable that the LBGTQ has made strides to become a relevant group to provide a sense of community for a group of individuals that feel under-represented and lacking a sense of belonging as well as safety in mainstream culture. However, this group is made up of several different orientations of individuals, and among those groups there is still dissension. This dissension revolves around dominance within the group and a questioning of hierarchy within the group that promotes exclusion opposed to the inclusion that had been gained after movements to gain equal rights and respect within their communities in relation to heterosexuals.
For a such a large movement that encourages inclusion and the promotion of tolerance members of the community can often be left feeling displaced and uncomfortable being members of such an expansive niche group. Intolerance within the group causes strife and often fighting between members—and members can be placed on different levels of importance. While disasters stitch the group back together, strides must be made to unify this diverse group of people without hate and distaste of its own members.
In particular, there is discord between members by specific orientation, bisexuals are often questioned by those who define themselves as homosexuals—either they are pretending or in the midst of transitioning to become a gay. There is also a stigma to being the less dominate individual in a same-sex relationship, they are often labeled in a negative manner and are considered less effectual as individuals and gender shamed. There is dissension not only caused by how a member self-identifies, but how they act as person—if they are too straight acting or overly queer.
In order to stand united the group needs to focus on creating bridges and identifying negative stereotypes that are perpetuated within their own community. There is only so much strength and credibility that can be supplied when the group questions one another’s status and denies acceptance of its members.