gatekept

Gatekept is an adjective or past participle describing something that has been subject to gatekeeping, or the act of gatekeeping itself. In general, to gatekeep is to regulate access to a space, resource, or status by an authority or group of gatekeepers who decide who may enter or participate. Gatekept thus refers to systems, spaces, or items that are controlled or restricted by such gatekeeping practices.

Common domains for gatekeeping include online communities, publishing, professional fields, and cultural or fandom spaces. Gatekeeping mechanisms can include membership screening, verification, invites, approval processes, or adherence to specific norms or criteria. Gatekeepers may rely on credentials, experience, demonstrated expertise, or alignment with community values to determine eligibility.

Critics argue that gatekeeping can preserve safety, quality, and order, but it often perpetuates privilege, suppresses marginalized voices, and hinders diversity and innovation. Supporters contend it helps prevent harm, misinformation, and low-quality contributions, and can protect vulnerable participants or standards. The tension between openness and control is central to many debates about gatekept spaces.

Examples of gatekept contexts include forums that require moderator approval for posting, journals that employ peer review, academic conferences with invitation or vetting processes, and social groups that screen new members. The term gatekept is used to describe both the practice of gatekeeping and the experience of individuals who perceive restricted access to a desired space or resource. In contemporary discourse, discussions often focus on balancing inclusive access with legitimate safeguards.