COVID-19 pandemic experiences of LGBTQIA + Asian youth in Canada

Abstract

LGBTQIA + Asian youth face unique challenges due to their intersecting identities (i.e. racial discrimination from LGBTQIA + communities, and LGBTQIA+ -related stigmatization from their Asian culture). The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing intersectional challenges due to the closure of community spaces for LGBTQIA + Asian youth, spaces which served as a safe haven from home and anti-Asians sentiments. Thus far, there have been no studies examining how the COVID-19 pandemic was experienced by LGBTQIA + Asian Canadian youth. To address this, we completed eight online focus group discussions with 30 LGBTQIA + Asian youth from across Canada, alongside a brief quantitative questionnaire to explore specific components of participants’ mental health and well-being. Quantitative findings suggested many participants were experiencing negative mental health outcomes (i.e. stress, anxiety, and depression). Thematic qualitative analysis showed that, despite various negative impacts of COVID-19 restrictions and increased anti-Asian sentiments, restrictions allowed youth to further explore their own sexual orientations and gender identities. Participants also shared that the #stopAsianhate movement was empowering, however it largely excluded LGBTQIA+ Asian voices. With the unique intersectional challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study highlights the importance of maintaining inclusive supports that consider the unique intracategorical complexities experienced by LGBTQIA +Asian youth.