The term queer refers to a set of identities, practices and claims that depart from traditional norms of gender and sexuality. Originally used pejoratively, it has been reappropriated by many to describe an orientation or identity that does not conform to the binary categories of gender (masculine/feminine) or sexuality (heterosexual/homosexual). The term queer thus encompasses a wide diversity of gender expressions, sexual orientations and experiences that defy dominant norms.
