Queers Read This

Queers Read This
Cover page of "Queers Read This"

"Queers Read This" (also stylized "QUEERS READ THIS!" and known by one of its components, "I Hate Straights") is an anonymously written essay about queer identity. It was originally circulated by members of Queer Nation as a pamphlet at the June 1990 New York Gay Pride Parade, and is generally understood as the group's manifesto.

The essay characterizes queerness as being based on social situation and action, in contrast to gay and lesbian identity which are considered to be based on "natural" or inherent characteristics. Across multiple sections which use various voices and tones, it lays out a rationale for the reappropriation of the term queer and suggests that to be queer is to constantly fight against oppression.

"Queers Read This" is regarded as one of the earliest articulations of queer activism and queer theory, with queer theory later expanding upon many concepts discussed in the essay. However, some scholars opined it criticizes heterosexuality rather than heteronormativity.