Confronting Heternormativity With Carl Wittmann - 858 Words

Confronting Heternormativity with Carl Wittmann American rhetoric about LGBT+ issues underwent major changes in the late 60s and early 70s. While for years homophile groups such as the Mattachine Society dominated queer rhetoric, in 1969 Carl Wittman’s â€Å"Gay Manifesto† redefined the LGBT+ rights movement’s voice and goals (380). Using shocking language, his authority as a gay man, and emotional appeals to his queer audience, Wittman and his â€Å"Gay Manifesto† utilized a confrontational, liberationist tone to communicate his views on sexual identity and heteronormative culture. While opponents may argue that Wittman’s profane language and emotional appeals weaken his argument and alienate the audience, his rhetorical choices prove perfect for engaging queer readers. Wittman’s â€Å"Gay Manifesto† spoke to queer people and offered a new perspective in LGBT+ rhetoric. Profane and shocking word choice helps drive Wittman’s confrontational and liberationist stanc e on LGBT+ issues. As authors Madeline Davis and Elizabeth Kennedy support in â€Å"Oral History and the Study of Sexuality in the Lesbian Community,† American queer rights movements became more critical and liberationist in the 70s (426). Wittman’s piece provides clear evidence of this tone change. By describing topics such as â€Å"exclusive heterosexuality† and interactions between males and females as â€Å"fucked up,† Wittman unabashedly confronts heteronormative culture and endorses queer peoples’ liberation from