Homonormativity, a concept that emerged in the second half of the 20th century and was further popularized by queer studies professor Lisa Duggan in the 1990s, refers to an LGBTQ+ advocacy approach that seeks inclusion within heteronormative structure. While its analysis was mostly limited to the experiences of white cis gay men initially, this review explores both foundational texts and more contemporary analyses that examine how homonormativity reinforces existing heteronormative norms rather than challenging them. 

Historically, a desire to define an “acceptable” way to be gay emerged after World War II. The aim of this homonormativity was for individuals to conform to gender norms, pass as heterosexual persons in public, and above all, confine their sexuality to the private sphere. This contrasts with the desire to define a queer identity and social justice movements surrounding this identity. Gay and lesbian people from homonormative activist circles positioned themselves against right-wing homophobia, but also differentiated themselves from left-wing ideas  that called for a restructuring of society.

Duggan presented homonormativity in the context of capitalism, drawing connections with the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in the institution of marriage and consumption culture often referred to as “pink capitalism”. Moreover, Duggan (2002) defines homonormativity as “the sexual politics of neoliberalism”. Some studies explore specific examples of the concept of homonormativity as it manifests in dating culture and work culture (Mowlabocus, 2021), in sexual education (Lecuyer, 2024), or even in connections with nationalist ideology (i.e. homonationalism) (Rupp, 2011).

Some scholars  are more critical of the use of the concept due to its limited use in an urban context (Brown, 2012) or invisibilizing the survival processes of older LGBTQ+ individuals (Rosenfeld, 2009).