View source for Closeted

[[File:Closeted.png|thumb|245x245px|The closeted flag]]
'''Closeted''', or '''In the Closet''', is a term used to describe an individual who isn't open about their [[queer]] identity.<ref>Teo, Yu Sheng. “What Does It Mean to Be Closeted? | LGBT Terms Explained.” ''Heckin’ Unicorn'', 16 Sept. 2021, [https://archive.ph/C6ETY heckinunicorn.com/blogs/heckin-unicorn-blog/understanding-closeted-meaning]. Accessed 4 May 2024.</ref> One keeps their [[gender identity]], [[orientation]] or another part of their queer identity a secret. One may only choose to disclose their identity to those closest to them, or they may not disclose it to anyone at all.<ref name=":0">Resnick, Ariane. “What Does It Mean to Be in the Closet?” ''Verywell Mind'', 31 July 2021, [https://archive.ph/rJYi4 www.verywellmind.com/what-does-it-mean-to-be-in-the-closet-5192426].</ref>

There are many reasons why someone would stay in the closet, such as:<ref name=":0" />

* Fearing for one's physical safety
* Backlash from family members
* Workplace discrimination
* Lack of access to healthcare

== Etymology ==
There isn't a single, correct interpretation of why the term is "in the closet." One interpretation of the term is representative of how a closet is a small, dark place that is considered private.<ref name=":0" />

== History ==
There is no exact origin for the term "closeted" when related to [[LGBTQ+]] spaces, but it has been used since the late 1960s.<ref name=":0" />

== Flags & Symbols ==
A closeted flag was uploaded onto the Tumblr account Beyond MOGAI Pride Flags on July 17, 2021. There is no confirmed meaning behind the flag.<ref>beyond-mogai-pride-flags. “Closeted Pride Flag.” ''Tumblr'', 17 July 2021, [https://archive.ph/DIA8Z beyond-mogai-pride-flags.tumblr.com/post/656978679927341056/closeted-pride-flag]. Accessed 4 May 2024.</ref>

== Related Terms ==
{| class="wikitable"
!Label
!Relationship
!Description
|-
|[[Out]]
|Opposite
|Someone who is open about their queer identity.
|}

== Sources ==
<references />
[[Category:Terminology]]