Why do some gay men refer to themselves and other men as if they were women?

[Reischfleger]

Girl…

For many gay men, using these words with their friends is a way of embracing femininity and showing vulnerability or affection to others who share their identities.

Also…

Gay men calling each other "she" or "girl" was historically a way of protecting themselves as well as building community in the context of homophobic and violent mainstream culture.

 

[PipRosi]

Girl…

For many gay men, using these words with their friends is a way of embracing femininity and showing vulnerability or affection to others who share their identities.

Also…

Gay men calling each other "she" or "girl" was historically a way of protecting themselves as well as building community in the context of homophobic and violent mainstream culture.

Right. I've been learning some fascinating history showing how all around the world various forms of gender-bending abounded long before any "homosexual" identity as such. A group of people separated out to be labeled "homosexual" was one of a number of societal stratifications accompanying the onset of industrial capitalism.