Language Barriers in the Asian-American Community

Just like with other segments of the American population, Asian-Americans can be gay, lesbian, bi, trans, or any other type of sexual or gender identity. Unfortunately, many Asian-Americans find that they have a hard time talking with others in the Asian-American community about their experiences and feelings.

A big part of the problem is that traditional Asian languages don’t often lend themselves to conversations about LGBTQ issues. In some cases, words simply don’t exist for certain feelings or experiences. In other cases, existing words are offensive or derogatory in nature.

If you’re having a hard time breaking down communication barriers in the LGBTQ Asian dating sphere, below are some tips:

Work to Create and Embrace New Words

One way that members of the LGBTQ Asian dating community have tackled this issue is by creating new words using existing languages. For example, “transpinoy” has been embraced by the LGBTQ Filipino-American community as existing words are considered offensive.

By creating new words using existing Asian language, members of the LGBTQ Asian-American community have the chance to take control over how feelings and experiences are expressed.

Consider Avoiding Western Words

If you’re concerned about LGBTQ identity being connected to Western identity, you can also consider avoiding Western words when talking about LGBTQ issues. Once again, this may require some creativity, but the goal is to separate LGBTQ from Western identity as this can cause relatives and friends in the community to believe that you only feel the way that you do because of Western influence.

Not All Expression is Verbal

You’re also encouraged to keep in mind that not all expression needs to be verbal to get a point across. The LGBTQ community has used non-verbal forms of expression for hundreds of years if not longer to signal their identities.

While you’re discouraged from hiding your identity by using non-verbal forms of communication, these can be ways to overcome language barriers. This can be effective in the Asian-American LGBTQ community as well as in the global LGBTQ community as a whole.

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