Gay men sometimes shift between different modes of expression, including language, behavior, or mannerisms, to navigate between their authentic identity and societal expectations or contexts related to their sexual orientation. Known as code-switching, this practice can reinforce societal norms that marginalize certain linguistic or cultural expressions, leading us to suppress our authentic identities and perpetuating a sense of disconnection or internal conflict.

In this episode, we’re taking a look into the intricate history of code-switching, how it manifests within the LGBTQ+ community, and ways we can cultivate an inclusive environment, where authenticity thrives and the necessity to code-switch diminishes.

Related Episodes:
Listen to Episode 10. Out in the Workplace
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/10-out-in-the-workplace/id1619338054?i=1000567244087

Listen to Episode 85. Boundaries: How to Understand and Set Them
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/85-boundaries-how-to-understand-and-set-them/id1619338054?i=1000641820212

Additional Resources:
Code-Switching Definition (Merriam-Webster)
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/code-switching

Code-Switching (Britannica)
https://www.britannica.com/topic/code-switching

Sociolinguistics (Britannica)
https://www.britannica.com/science/sociolinguistics

BetterUp
https://www.betterup.com/en/about-us

What is Code Switching and How Does It Impact Teams?
https://www.betterup.com/blog/code-switching

Code-Switching: What Does It Mean and Why Do People Do It?
https://www.health.com/mind-body/health-diversity-inclusion/code-switching

Code Switching: Exploring the Types & Impact
https://www.talkspace.com/blog/code-switching-what-is/

Redditors Sound Off On ‘Gay Voice’ and Whether They Code-Switch
https://www.queerty.com/redditors-sound-off-gay-voice-whether-code-switch-20190428

The Exhausting Work of LGBTQ Code-Switching
https://www.vice.com/en/article/evj47w/the-exhausting-work-of-lgbtq-code-switching

Get Your Merch
https://a-jaded-gay.creator-spring.com/

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https://www.patreon.com/ajadedgaypod