I believe we all have different ways we came to the gay community and we can't and shouldn't be pigeon-holed into one cultural narrative which can be uninclusive and disempowering.
And for me, it is a choice. I understand that for many people its not, but for me its a choice, and you dont get to define my gayness for me. A certain section of our community is very concerned that it not be seen as a choice, because if its a choice, then we could opt out. I say it doesnt matter if we flew here or we swam here, it matters that we are here and we are one group and let us stop trying to make a litmus test for who is considered gay and who is not.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes personal agency in defining one's identity, particularly regarding sexuality, and advocates for unity within the LGBTQ+ community.
Cynthia Nixon expresses a powerful message about the nature of sexual identity, asserting that individuals should have the freedom to define their own experiences and identities, rather than being judged or categorized by others. She recognizes that for some, being gay may feel like a choice, while for others it does not, but ultimately calls for acceptance and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community, urging members to avoid creating arbitrary standards that might exclude others. This perspective encourages inclusivity and understanding amidst diverse experiences of sexual identity.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a Pride event to highlight the importance of self-definition in the LGBTQ+ community.
More from Cynthia Nixon
All quotes →Now I have a third must-do on my list of things to do with cancer, and it's this: follow your gut, ask questions, don't be complacent.
Similar quotes
You have now reached infatuation’s final destination—the complete and merciless devaluation of self.
You cannot share your life with a dog, as I had done in Bournemouth, or a cat, and not know perfectly well that animals have personalities and minds and feelings.
I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.
The drama and the trauma of the relationship you have when you're 16 can mirror the one you have when you're 26. Life repeats itself.
If you do something for someone else, never remember. If someone does something for you, never forget.
Born in the same land, we ought to live as brothers, doing to each other all the good we can, and not listening to wicked men, who may endeavor to make us enemies. By living in peace, we can help and prosper one another; by waging war, we can kill and destroy many on both sides; but those who survive will not be the happier for that.