#coded language
Friends of Dorothy
A “Friend of Dorothy” is any LGBTQ+ person. ✨ The phrase dates back to at least World War II, when homosexual acts were illegal in the United States. Stating that, or asking if, someone was a friend of Dorothy was coded language used to find other members of the LGBTQ+ community discreetly, and safely. Whatever its origins, “friend of Dorothy” illustrates several of the most important functions of folklore that serve members of the LGBTQ+ community. The phrase helped to maintain the stability, solidarity, cohesiveness, and identity of the group within the larger culture at a time when those qualities were much needed.Post link
