LGBTQ+

Black and white illustration of two figures in traditional Chinese clothing, with one person bending over a third figure lying down, surrounded by decorative patterns and calligraphy, evoking themes from Chinese history and bisexuality.

Bisexuality in Chinese History

The inclusion of queer history in curriculums is integral to teaching about world civilizations. With this featured article, high school students can be introduced to prevalent representations of bisexuality in Han Dynasty China. In the Western Han Dynasty (206 BCE to 220 CE) it was common for emperors to have both wives and male companions. Both men and women at the time used intimate relationships to gain favor with the upper court, and this openness to nonheterosexual intimacy led to legendary love stories that are still prevalent as symbols of queer love. 

Teacher Resource
A group of people march outdoors in China, holding a rainbow flag overhead and a red banner, with some waving small rainbow flags—a vibrant scene reflecting LGBT activism in China.

Unfinished Revolution: An Overview of Three Decades of LGBT Activism in China

Within the context of queer activism, perhaps one of the most inspiring movements is that of the Chinese LGBTQ community. In pre-modern times, China had a long history of societally accepted homosexuality, a stark contrast to pre-modern Europe that largely viewed any homosexuality as an abomination. However, in the present period, the Chinese Party-State has suppressed and censored the LGBTQ community, prompting activists to fight back. This article discusses the ups and downs queer activism in China has experienced in the last few decades, the role of nongovernmental organizations as opportunities for change, and the political sensitivity surrounding human rights activism.   

Teacher Resource
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