The Unspoken Project by York University

The Unspoken Project is comprised of two main deliverables—a publication piece, and an abridged data visualization—which address how the historical evolution of hidden symbols and signalling among queer women has integrated into modern culture. The Unspoken Project presents a comprehensive analysis of qualitative data, grounded in research, to explore the connections between objects and queer identities.

The Unspoken Project publication is a research-driven exploration of queer semiotics, showcasing how everyday objects serve as symbols of identity, celebration, and protection within the queer community. Featuring a cover that unfolds into a legend, readers can make connections between participant-submitted images and the thematic framework of the project. Each object, systematically categorized, highlights the personal yet collective significance of these symbols—revealing how they safeguard or celebrate queerness. The publication is supported through its counterpart, Unspoken Networks, which utilizes the same visual system.