The Role of Food in Queer Liberation Movements

Food has long been a cornerstone of community and resilience within queer liberation movements in the United States. Shared meals and communal eating have provided a space for connection, support, and survival for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly during periods of political and social repression. This practice, rooted in history, remains relevant today as a means of fostering solidarity and endurance. Author John Birdsall, a two-time James Beard Award winner for food and culture writing, explores this theme in his book 'What Is Queer Food? How We Served a Revolution.' Birdsall highlights how food has been a tool for queer and trans individuals to navigate oppressive environments across different eras. He notes that communal eating has historically offered a way for these communities to sustain themselves emotionally and physically when faced with adversity. In 2025, the United States continues to witness political challenges that impact the LGBTQ+ community. Birdsall emphasizes that, much like their ancestors, current generations rely on the act of eating together to cope with the pressures of the present political climate. This enduring tradition underscores the importance of food not just as sustenance, but as a powerful symbol of resistance and unity within queer liberation movements.