How the term queer became cool again

Joanne Lockwood is joined by Joseph Galliano-Doig, co-founder and CEO of Queer Britain, to explore how the word “queer” shifted from a weaponised slur to a reclaimed, inclusive umbrella term. They discuss generational differences in how the term lands, the importance of self-identification, and how language, intent, and context shape who holds power in a conversation.

Joe shares his career across LGBTQ+ media and advocacy, and the motivation behind establishing the UK’s first national, bricks-and-mortar LGBTQ+ museum. Together they reflect on why a permanent space matters for visibility, cultural memory, and creating somewhere both queer and non-queer people can learn, connect, and feel proud of these histories.

The conversation also touches on life during lockdown, including the ways isolation can be especially difficult for people who are not out or who are living in hostile environments. They discuss workplace inclusion as a potential refuge, the pressures of constantly managing language and disclosure, and the wider social climate—including trans rights debates in the media and renewed global attention on racism and allyship.