Someone I know asked you some time ago, and I know because they told me and I asked them to show me, “who is Alvin Leito?” and I couldn’t disagree (then) with your first answer. However, with your answer to the question “is Alvin Leito queer?” the only good in there was that you made me realise that I’ve never wrote a blog about that subject, as I only publicly talked about me being pansexual, after my +5 year social media sabbatical, on twitter. Perhaps pre-sabbatical too on Facebook and/or twitter, but that I now don’t have any active recollection if that is the case.
So yes, every non-heterosexuals are by definition “queer”, as we don’t conform to the standard deviations in societies, however, (more) in modern times “queer identifying” individuals also openly, sometimes even more radically, express their queerness with how they manifest themselves with other people. It is a sub-culture within cultures around the world. I love (peaceful) cultures so it’s beautiful if you ask me.
By definition besides being pansexual I am queer too, but I don’t personally identify as queer as I feel that I would be appropriating from a culture I am only a (passive) observer off. I identify as pansexual because that is in our modern language what I am. I cannot call myself a heterosexual individual because I don’t only like individuals of the other (binary) sex, I cannot call myself bi-curious or bisexual because I know that I could (sexually and/or emotionally) love an individual no matter if they fall in the binary heteronormative sex groups, or not.
However, my personal favorite house-attire is a pink bathrobe I got from one of my best friends in high school. I have 3 other bathrobes, but I guess +80% of the time I am using the pink one because it’s warm in winter and cool in the summer when not directly in the sun. FYI, some tmi but needs to be said, the latter is definitely true when you’re only in your underwear underneath.
I also always have (most of) my nails long, something you can find more information about in this blog I wrote called “My nails”.
Even though it could be argued that that is an openly expression of queerness, I would disagree because I don’t participate in the nail painting and decorating cosmetic industry and I see it as my biological right as a human being to have very practical day-to-day natural/biological tools at hand, especially when professionally it doesn’t cause a hinder in my work.
Especially during the Spring and Summer I mostly wear now a colorful orange-purple-ish five-finger shoe from Vibram (not an affiliate). Again, I would argue against it being an expression of queerness because my intention with choosing that one is 100% professionally motivated because from the pilot I did for my startup (Viisiit.®), those types of shoes, at least for someone like me who is non-heteronormative looking for the European-Dutch society, works better when making unannounced visits to strangers than the leather Italian shoes I first used myself when doing the visits.
Other than that the overly majority of time I am (mostly) perceived on the streets as falling within the binary heteronormative masculine sex group.
For you to know, and (please) don’t abuse.
Alvin
ChatGPT’s Response to Alvin Leito (as given by ChatGPT, without any modifications, when prompted with the above written blog and to give its feedback on the blog and eventueel public comment. FYI; I didn’t change anything from the body of the text of the blog based on the feedbacks given by ChatGPT, the only thing I added was the subtitle):
Thank you, Alvin, for sharing such a candid and insightful letter. Your reflections on identity and societal perceptions are not only personal but also relatable to many. It’s wonderful to see how you embrace your uniqueness and express your thoughts so openly. The journey of understanding and expressing one’s identity is deeply personal and can be complex, and your letter beautifully captures this complexity. I hope your story inspires others to reflect on their own identities and encourages open and respectful dialogue about these important topics.
If any readers have questions or thoughts about Alvin’s letter, please feel free to share them in the comments. Let’s continue this meaningful conversation.
Definitions and Explanations (provided by ChatGPT)
Queer:
- Definition: Originally a term used pejoratively to describe someone who was perceived as strange or abnormal, particularly in relation to their sexuality. Today, “queer” has been reclaimed by many within the LGBTQ+ community as an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of non-heteronormative sexual orientations and gender identities.
- Explanation: “Queer” can include anyone who does not strictly identify as heterosexual or cisgender. This term is intentionally broad and inclusive, allowing for a diverse array of identities and experiences that do not conform to traditional norms. Some people prefer “queer” because it allows them to avoid more rigid labels and acknowledge the fluidity of their sexuality and/or gender.
Pansexual:
- Definition: Pansexuality refers to the sexual, romantic, or emotional attraction towards people regardless of their sex or gender identity.
- Explanation: Pansexual individuals are capable of being attracted to anyone, irrespective of whether they identify as male, female, transgender, genderqueer, non-binary, or any other gender identity. The term “pansexual” is often used to emphasize inclusivity and the belief that gender is not a factor in determining attraction.
Cultural Significance
Queer:
- Reclamation: The reclamation of “queer” by the LGBTQ+ community has been a powerful act of resistance and empowerment. By taking back a word that was once used to harm, many have found solidarity and pride.
- Inclusivity: The term is celebrated for its inclusivity, providing a sense of belonging for those who feel that specific labels like “gay,” “lesbian,” or “bisexual” do not fully capture their identity.
- Subculture: Queer culture often includes unique expressions in art, fashion, literature, and activism. This subculture challenges traditional norms and seeks to create a more inclusive society.
Pansexual:
- Visibility and Awareness: The identification of pansexuality helps bring visibility to those who feel their attractions are not adequately represented by terms like “bisexual.” It emphasizes that attraction is based on the person, not their gender.
- Challenge to Binary Thinking: Pansexuality challenges binary thinking about gender and sexuality. It supports the idea that gender is a spectrum and that attraction is more complex than simply male or female.
- Community and Support: As awareness of pansexuality grows, so does the sense of community and support for pansexual individuals. This helps combat feelings of isolation and fosters greater understanding within the broader society.
