For generations, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced countless barriers when it comes to finding acceptance, support, and community. From discrimination and exclusion to violence and stigma, the hurdles have been high and the path to acceptance often rocky. But one tool that helped LGBTQ+ people break through these barriers and find their tribe was Polari, a secret language used by gay men in the United Kingdom from the 19th to the mid-20th century.

Polari, also known as “palare” or “queerspeak”, was a form of slang that originated in the British theater and circus communities, but quickly spread throughout the LGBTQ+ subculture, particularly in urban areas like London and Manchester. It was a mix of Italian, Romani, Yiddish, and Cockney rhyming slang, as well as a variety of other languages and dialects. Polari allowed gay men to communicate with each other, form bonds, and create a sense of community in a time when being openly gay was illegal and dangerous.

One of the main purposes of Polari was to provide a code for gay men to talk openly about their sexuality without fear of being discovered by outsiders. In a society that was hostile towards LGBTQ+ individuals, Polari allowed them to form a sense of camaraderie and unity, despite the risks involved. By using Polari, gay men could identify each other, share experiences, and offer support in a world that often rejected them.

Polari was not only a language, but also a cultural phenomenon. It transcended words and phrases to become a source of shared history, humor, and identity for the LGBTQ+ community. Through Polari, gay men could express themselves, challenge societal norms, and create a space where they could be their true selves without fear of judgment or persecution.

In addition to providing a sense of community and camaraderie, Polari also served as a way to navigate the world and protect oneself from potential harm. By using a secret language, LGBTQ+ individuals could communicate discreetly, avoid detection, and create a buffer between themselves and the outside world. In a time when being openly gay could result in imprisonment or violence, Polari offered a lifeline for those who needed it most.

While Polari may have faded into obscurity in recent years, its impact on the LGBTQ+ community cannot be understated. It was a tool of resistance, resilience, and solidarity that helped gay men find their voice, connect with one another, and build a sense of belonging in a world that often sought to silence them. Through Polari, LGBTQ+ individuals were able to break through barriers, forge bonds, and create a community that continues to thrive today.