Why do I feel guilty about my privilege as a passing member of the LGBTQ+ community?

Feeling guilty about having privilege within the LGBTQ+ community—whether because you can pass as straight, are in a different-gender relationship, or face less discrimination due to other aspects of your identity—is a common experience. This dealing with guilt often stems from awareness that others face more severe discrimination, violence, or rejection while you may be able to move through the world with relative safety. While it's important to acknowledge and understand your privilege, guilty feelings alone doesn't help anyone. Privilege isn't something to feel ashamed of—it's something to be aware of and use responsibly. This might mean amplifying voices of those who face more discrimination, supporting LGBTQ+ organizations financially or through volunteering, or using your relative safety to advocate for others who can't speak up without risking their safety or livelihood. It's also important not to minimize your own struggles or experiences because others have it worse. Having privilege in some areas doesn't mean you haven't faced challenges, discrimination, or internal struggles related to your identity development. Your experience is valid even if it's different from others in your community. The goal isn't to feel guilty about your advantages but to use them thoughtfully while continuing to work toward a world where everyone in the LGBTQ+ community can live safely and authentically.