Exploring Online Safe Spaces

With the increasing number of users of the internet in this growing age, it’s become imperative that we think to make it as inclusive as possible. Today, the internet has become a powerful platform for connecting people and binding together communities that would possibly be lost in the conundrum of the physical world. 

With the advent of the globalisation, there is upliftment of niche communities that have found solace in shared interest and likings, banding together in the online world. These spaces are sacred with their own set of unsaid rules and boundaries that make it different and safer than the physical world. Granted, it is ironical that certain individuals are truly themselves behind the veil of anonymity or an alias on the internet, but before these platforms this feat was not possible at all. It is an era of liberation carefully balanced on the shoulders of screens and carefully curated identities. 

In a similar vein, it has become possible for queer individuals to have access to online spaces where they can express themselves freely and connect with others who share similar experiences. One of the best ways to do that is through use of social media platforms that are specifically designed for the LGBTQ+ community. These spaces uplift voices of minorities and give them a chance to be heard, providing a sense of community and belonging.

It is important to understand these online safe spaces as the LGBTQ+ community is centred around identities and being true to yourself. It is no question that for some individuals, be it due to limitations of a hostile environment or being a dependent minor, this self-expression in the real world is still a distant dream. For them, these online spaces prove to be safe havens that are a gateway to a different life where they are accepted for their true identity. 

Talking to one such participant, they revealed how these communities can band together in unlikely bubbles of popular social media sites. The members are accepting where personal information is shared on your own terms and level of comfort. One notable trait is the bond between individuals who are comfortable in their identity and are an active member of the community with members who are new and still learning the ropes. This mentor-mentee relationship is exclusive to these spaces. 

These communities exist on almost all social media platforms but there are also some which are specially created for queer individuals – some examples may include Grindr, HER, OkCupid. These are mainly examples of dating apps but we still have reddit communities such as r/ainbow, r/lgbt and r/queer. Gaybros and Queerty are online forums for queer people that help raise discussions or rather provide a space for individuals be themselves unabashedly and find like-minded people who will uplift their life.

It’s important to remember that creating safe spaces is an ongoing process that requires active effort and commitment from all members of the community. These spaces have certain characteristics to them such as:

• Encouraging usage of inclusive language in the community. This includes using preferred pronouns, avoiding harmful language and stereotypes and promoting acceptance and understanding

• Creating and promoting a culture of accountability within the community, which implies that harmful behaviour will be called out and addressed, holding individuals accountable for their actions

• Fostering diversity and representation within the community by providing members from different background and identities to share their perspectives and experiences

• Educating members about online safety and privacy including how to protect private information and using privacy settings

• Providing resources and support for those who may have been affected by discrimination or harassment. This can include providing access to counselling services or connecting individuals with organizations that provide support and advocacy for queer individuals.

One such example of an online support group for queer individuals is The Trevor Project’s online support group. It is the largest suicide prevention and mental health organisation for LGBTQ youth. Hundreds of volunteers are trained to be ‘crisis counsellors’ for LGBTQ young people in a 24/7 service with varied issues. The Trevor Project provides information and support to the youth about otherwise taboo topics of the society, also providing a safe space to meet with other LGBTQ youth.

Another way to create safe online spaces for queer people is through the use of encryption and other security measures. This can help protect queer individuals from being targeted by hackers or other malicious actors, and can provide a sense of security and privacy.

Another important aspect of creating safe online spaces for queer people is through the use of anonymity. Many queer individuals may not feel safe sharing their identity publicly, and anonymous online spaces allow them to express themselves freely without fear of repercussions. These examples lie in a lot of places on the internet, where the community accepts individuals irrespective of whether they’re public about their identity or anonymous.

In conclusion, creating safe online spaces for queer people is crucial in today's digital age. This can be achieved through the use of social media platforms and anonymous online spaces, providing resources and support for those experiencing harassment, and using encryption and other security measures. By providing safe spaces for queer individuals, we can help empower them to express themselves freely and connect with others who share similar experiences.