Gay Identity Research Articles

From Sanctuary to Safe Space

Abstract This article focuses on how the trajectories of gay and lesbian police-reform efforts in Los Angeles model a transition from a politics of sanctuary to the production of safe space. The production of safe space is conditioned by the multiplication of discourses of race, gender, and sexuality emblematized by the rise of identity-based neighborhood politics throughout the postwar period, and how these politics interface with the reterritorialization of the welfare state and the advent of community policing. The article historicizes several Stonewall-era gay organizations, showing how activists enacted a politics of sanctuary that helped to decriminalize gay and lesbian identity, and then arguing that this politics of sanctuary was drawn into the production of safe space. This writing invites possibilities for abolitionist organizing by demonstrating the life cycle of law and order that circumscribes urban, identity-based, antiviolence, and neighborhood-based politics.

동성애적 정체성 형성의 퀴어이론적 분석: 노년 게이 남성의 구술생애사를 중심으로

동성애적 정체성 형성의 퀴어이론적 분석: 노년 게이 남성의 구술생애사를 중심으로

The Influence of Online Experiences: The Shaping of Gay Male Identities

ABSTRACT Although research has documented that technological advances via online avenues have impacted the way LGBT individuals gain social capital, less is known about how these online experiences influence the coming out processes for gay men. Using a qualitative approach, this study seeks to understand how the online experiences of gay men either enhanced or inhibited the coming out process. Clustered themes revealed four insights: 1. Online experiences catalyzed the coming out process, 2. Early milestones about the realization of homosexuality came largely from online experiences, 3. Pornography was a tool often utilized for sexual knowledge, and 4. Online experiences helped affirm homosexual identity. Generally, data show that online experiences may manifest offline experiences (i.e., meeting up with another individual, talking about their sexual orientation with others), and that technological communication expedites the coming out process.

«You better werk». Rasgos del camp talk en la subtitulación al español de Rupaul's Drag Race

This article addresses Spanish subtitling for the reality television show RuPaul’s Drag Race (RPDR), which has been aired in the United States since 2009, analyzing the presence of specific microtextual features of camp (an aesthetic sensibility present in English-speaking spaces that is generally associated with homosexual identity) and of the manner in which these features have been translated into the Spanish subtitled versions found on Netflix and produced by the Facebook group RuPaul’s Drag Race Venezuela. The article begins with a description of the importance of researching camp talk in the context of Translation Studies and continues with an analysis of subtitles from two of the show’s episodes. Finally, results are discussed concerning the scope of translation’s role in camp-related acculturation processes, and new social functions for subtitling are considered.

Diasporic Chinese family drama through a transnational lens: The Wedding Banquet (1993) and Saving Face (2004)

Abstract The immigrant Chinese family has increasingly been represented in transnational Chinese cinema(s) over the past three decades. Two representative films, The Wedding Banquet (Lee, 1993) and Saving Face (Wu, 2004), are chosen to shed light on Chinese filmmakers' engagement with the complex process of identity formation for immigrants through the artifice of family conflict. Both movies examine how homosexuality can pose a threat to traditional Chinese family ethics such as filial piety, family continuity and family reputation, and how the seemingly incompatible ideological standpoints can be accommodated in the end. In both cases, on the one hand the depicted denial of homosexuality comes from its association with failed family education and bad ethnic and cultural practice, and its violation of traditional Chinese values. Therefore, sexuality becomes linked to the effect of Americanization and what it means to be Chinese. On the other hand, the 'undesirable' homosexual identity can be accepted or at least tolerated within the family as long as the family lineage is ensured, or the family remains intact. The disaporic subjects show us that submission to one's ethnicity can be modified or unlearned.

Abjection and Sacrifice in Christos Tsiolkas’ “Merciless Gods” (2014)

This paper examines “Merciless Gods” (2014) by Australian writer- Christos Tsiolkas, whose novels include Loaded (1995), Dead Europe (2005), The Slap (2008) and Barracuda (2013), all since adapted for film or television. Tsiolkas’ fiction delves into contemporary social issues, often in an urban or suburban Australian setting, withcharacters who often reflect Tsiolkas’ own homosexual identity and his upbringing in ethnically-diverse Melbourne. A complex narrative, “Merciless Gods” questions our world’s capacity to preserve social cohesion in the face of inequality andself-absorption. As an unnamed narrator recalls a confessional party game which unfolded among old friends, his framework of successive narratives leads to a climactic revelation which shattered the group’s unity and left each friend individually, personally, shaken after one of them, Vince, claimed to have committed a horridcrime in a remote, foreign land. However, intellectual games of abjection, sublimation, sacrifice and redemption―and, conversely, condemnation and ostracism―arguably reveal the monster among the innocent as art’s Gnostic savior, suggesting that Vince and the unnamed narrator are an ironic, dualistic projection of Tsiolkas himself― a willing scapegoat, sacrificing self for his friends’, and readers’, moral purification.

A Different Christian Witness to Society: Christian Support for Gay Rights and Liberation in Minnesota, 1977–1993

The traditional narrative of religion and the gay rights movement in the post-1960s United States emphasizes conservative Christians and their opposition to gay rights. Few studies focus on the supportive role Christian leaders and churches played in advancing gay rights and nurturing a positive gay identity for homosexual Americans. Concentrating on the period from 1977 to 1993 and drawing largely from manuscript collections at the Minnesota Historical Society, including the Minnesota GLBT Movement papers of Leo Treadway, this study of Christianity and gay rights in the state of Minnesota demonstrates that while Christianity has often been an oppressive force on homosexuals and homosexuality, Christianity was also a liberalizing influence. Putting forth arguments derived from religious understandings, using biblical passages as “proof” texts, and showing a mutuality between the liberal theological tradition and the secular political position, the Christian community was integral to advancing gay rights and liberation in Minnesota by the early 1990s despite religious right resistance. These efforts revealed a Christianity driven to actualize the love of God here on earth and ensure human wholeness, freedom, and an authentic selfhood. Christian clergy, churches, and ordinary persons of faith thus undertook activity in three areas to ensure wholeness and freedom: political activity for civil protections; emotional, pastoral care for persons with AIDS; and as a source of self-affirmation and social comfort in the midst of an inhospitable society.

Same-Sex Sexuality and the Risk of Divorce: Findings from Two National Studies

ABSTRACT Despite symbolic linkages between heterosexuality and marriage, and a pervasive heteronormative ideology of romantic love, little population-representative research examines whether same-sex sexuality – desire/attraction, behavior, and gay, lesbian, or bisexual identity – increases the likelihood of divorce from an different-sex spouse. We examine this association using data from the 1992 National Health and Social Life Survey and the 2011–2013 National Survey of Family Growth. In both sub-studies, multivariate logistic regression analyses indicate that same-sex sexuality reduces the odds of ever marrying. However, among the once-married, same-sex desire/attraction, sexual behavior, and gay, lesbian, or bisexual identity respectively increase the odds of different-sex divorce net of demographic and early-life factors. Same-sex sexuality puts a brake on divorce by preventing some different-sex marriages that would ultimately end in divorce, but is associated with an increase risk of different-sex divorce among once-married individuals.

The intersection of professionalism gay men, bodies and power

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to build upon the paucity of UK research on gay men and how they manage their identities, bodies and selves in the workplace. Particular focus is placed on gay male professionals working in positions of authority and how they make sense of themselves against the dominant expectations of professionalism.Design/methodology/approachThe study draws upon in-depth interview data with eight gay male professionals working in positions of authority.FindingsOverall, the research reveals that although the majority of participants had disclosed their sexuality in the workplace, they actively sought to integrate and normalise their gay identities. Gendered organisational norms significantly impacted upon the ways they presented their identities, bodies and selves. This was brought into focus where participants had to exercise authority. There were limited opportunities to present non-normative forms of masculinity.Originality/valueThis paper adds to a dearth of studies on gay men, professionalism and managing their bodies, selves and identities in the workplace. The paper builds upon and contributes to our understanding of how gay men use and construct their bodies and their self-identities as professionals. An area that has had little empirical investigation. Furthermore, the paper contributes to our understanding of organisational heteronormativity and professionalism in the workplace. The paper draws attention to issues of diversity and inclusion challenging heteronormative discourses of professionalism which are draped in masculinity. This paper highlights how professionalism serves as a normalising process that pressurises gay men to perform a specific type of masculinity. The paper argues for a more inclusive reappraisal of the meanings attached to the term professionalism.

Encouraging Activism Through Art: Preservice Teachers Challenge Censorship

According to the American Library Association, book censorship is on the rise. While many censored books are adolescent novels, some titles for younger children are challenged as well. Books dealing with difficult social issues have been targets for censors historically, but recent attacks have focused on books portraying members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and other sexual identities (LGBTQ+) community. The goal of this qualitative study was to build prospective teachers’ (PTs’) knowledge of censorship while also providing an opportunity for them to take a sociopolitical stance. Students in a children’s literature course read source materials and reacted by creating a transmediation that used some form of art. Lenses for data analysis included qualitative research, critical discourse analysis, and visual discourse analysis. The first major theme focused on freedom and democracy and the threat censorship poses. Within this category, two subthemes were identified: (1) children having freedom to learn about real-world issues and (2) children having freedom to read books that meet their personal needs. A second major theme focused on how PTs thought people should respond to censorship. Responses expressing fear and/or confusion about censorship were coded as demonstrating a teacher dilemma, while examples showing a challenge to censorship were coded as demonstrating resistance. Findings indicate that PTs were shocked by what they learned about censorship, and many of them engaged in culture jamming, which involves using the arts to challenge oppressive systems. Many used art to critique censorship and advocate for children’s rights. This study challenges the common cultural assumption that teaching is an apolitical or neutral activity.

”The Framing of Gay Candidate for Human Right Commissioner in the Religious-Based Indonesian Online Portals”

The representation of homosexuality in Indonesian media tends to be discriminative and negative, with stigma, prejudice, and stereotypes. It occurs not only in the mainstream but also in the cyber media such as online news-portals. The discriminating views against homosexuals have even penetrated into the political sphere. In 2012, when Dede Oetomo, an activist of LGBTIQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, and Queer) proposed as a candidate for the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) commissioner, various reactions arose from people as he was exposed by the media. The controversy of Dede Oetomo’s candidacy occurs and spread widely, especially amongst online media portals. The public resistance to Dede Oetomo is mostly due to his gay identity. This paper studies how Dede Oetomo’s candidacy as the Human Right Commissioner is portrayed in the Indonesian online portals, based on Robert Entman’s framing model. The results show the online media portals’ framing of homosexual issues is still influenced by the majority religion (Islam) and the local cultural norms. The portals also differ from one another concerning the way they depict the issue although showing similar resentment towards homosexuality.

Identity Affirmation and Mental Health among Sexual Minorities: A Raised-Mormon Sample

How can someone successfully integrate a lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) identity and a Mormon identity? Using a sample of 530 LGB-identified individuals raised in the Later-Day Saints (LDS) church, this study asks how factors of empowerment are associated with sexual identity affirmation and mental health outcomes. We found that sexual identity support, connection needs support, LGBT community support, and educational attainment were significantly associated with more positive mental health outcomes. LGB women who were raised Mormon appear to fair worse than men, on average. We also found that those raised Mormon who had disaffiliated with the LDS church reported significantly lower levels of internalized homonegativity than those still affiliated. Clinicians working with LGB Mormons and post-Mormons should consider the effect that affirming sources of support may have on positive mental health outcomes.

Angels in America – a theological reading in conjunction with Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation on The Call to Holiness in Today's World, Gaudete et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad), and key Catholic writings on Homosexuality

AbstractThis article is an inter-textual study of the play Angels in America (Part One), Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation Gaudete et Exsultate and key Catholic writings on homosexuality. I hope to show how the play might inform future Catholic understandings of self-identity, self-acceptance and self-love and how in turn, Catholic writings on the nature of love, sexuality and holiness can assist audiences to understand more deeply the themes and dilemmas in the play. The Catholic Church is immensely forgiving of the human failure to live up to the lofty demands of love and has a strong tradition of asceticism concerning the positive and transformative effects of self-control. However, due to the cognitive dissonance set up by its teaching on homosexuality, and in particular, its claim that there is an incompatibility between gay identity and ordained priestly identity, the Church has tended to retreat into a world of silence about the importance of self-knowledge to assuage the dissonance it feels. The dramatic deleterious consequences seen in the play about the failure to love oneself are a stark warning to the Church that this might not be the best or most pastoral path to take.

Understanding Identity and Context in the Development of Gay Teacher Identity: Perceptions and Realities in Teacher Education and Teaching

The way a teacher perceives relational justice—the feeling of being treated equitably and being included—in their work context is central to understanding the negotiation and enactment of teacher identity. For LGBTQ teachers, the degree to which they are out of the closet with their students and colleagues leads to many possible outcomes. These outcomes, ranging from feeling like they need to live duplicitous lives to being activist teachers that subvert the heteronormative assumptions in schools and curricula, are studied here by examining the identity development of a group of gay teachers and their perceptions of the schools in which they work. This article is based on a dissertation study that theorized that the heteronormative nature of teacher education is a limiting factor for gay teachers’ abilities to work and thrive in school contexts. The study included in depth case studies of four gay teachers and their journeys as gay men and teachers. The goal of the study was to answer the question: Does the enactment of gay teacher identity interrupt heteronormativity in schools? The study also sought to answer two ancillary questions: (1) How do gay teachers negotiate gay teacher identity in schools? and, (2) How do school contexts impact gay teachers’ perceptions of identity-based motivation and relational justice? This article will focus on Peter Ryan’s (pseudonym) case study, specifically because of its emblematic nature in summarizing the intent and implications of the overall study.

Queer Comrades: Gay Identity and Tongzhi Activism in Postsocialist China

Queer Comrades: Gay Identity and Tongzhi Activism in Postsocialist China

The English and German versions of the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale: Establishing measurement invariance across nationality and gender groups.

The English and German versions of the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale: Establishing measurement invariance across nationality and gender groups.

Moderators of the Association Between Community Connectedness and Internalizing Symptoms Among Gay Men.

Sexual minorities are exposed to various gay-related and general stressors that increase risk of mental and physical health problems. Yet, less attention has been paid to positive factors such as ameliorative coping strategies and social supports that reduce risk of mental health difficulties in this population. The current study sought to address this gap by examining the association between gay community connectedness and internalizing symptoms (i.e., general psychological distress, anxiety, and depression) in a sample of 147 self-identified gay men living in the greater New York City area, as well as the conditions under which gay community connectedness is associated with better mental health. Data were collected between 2013 and 2014. Findings indicated that gay community connectedness was associated with lower levels of internalizing symptoms among gay men, consistent with minority stress theory and other work examining the benefits of community coping resources. This association was strongest for non-White gay men, those whose gay identity was more central to their overall identity, and those with higher levels of femininity. These findings underscore the need to consider multiple aspects of gay men's identity (e.g., race/ethnicity, centrality, femininity) in order to fully understand the factors associated with mental health outcomes in this population.

A Dialogue on the Constructions of GLBT and Queer Ethos: “I Belong to a Culture That Includes …”

Invoking a dialogue between two scholars, authors Jane Hoogestraat and Hillery Glasby discuss the exigence for, construction of, and differentiation between LGBT and queer ethos. Drawing from Larry Kramer’s The Normal Heart and the construction of a gay identity, the text explores connections between queer theory, LGBT(Q) ethos, and queer futurity, ultimately arguing for a more nuanced and critical understanding of the undecidability and performativity of LGBT and queer ethos. In framing LGBT and queer ethos as being at the same time a self and socially constructed and mediated—legitimate and illegitimate—ethos can be understood not only as a site for rhetorical agency, but also as an orientation and a form of activism. Finally, the text offers a case study of Adrienne Rich’s “Yom Kippur,” which is a poem that offers a queer (and) Jewish perspective on identity—from an individual and community level—exhibiting both an LGBT and queer ethos.

Self-Imposed Exile, Marginality, and Homosexuality in the Novels of Abdellah Taïa, Rachid O., and Eyet-Chékib Djaziri

ABSTRACT A burgeoning canon of Maghrebian writers in self-imposed exiled in France has in the last decade begun to openly broach the subject of homosexuality in Arab-Muslim communities of the Maghreb. Novels of writers like Abdellah Taïa, Rachid O. and Eyet-Chékib Djaziri reflect a fascinating trans-Mediterranean construction of homosexual identity. Drawing on Svetlana Boym’s critical work, particularly her observation that nostalgia “charts an affective geography of the native land that often mirrors the melancholic landscapes” of the exiled, this paper analyzes the construction of homosexuality against the notions of exile, nostalgia, and marginality. The novels of these Maghrebian writers highlight nostalgia as both cathartic and paralyzing for “gay” migrant protagonists who find themselves trapped in the subtle seam between a cherished Maghreb that is framed as homophobic in the sexual clash of civilizations and a more liberal yet inauspicious France. The nostalgic contemplation of the constitution of a homosexual subjectivity is read as a critical performance and mainstreaming of hitherto marginalized voices that now subvert and fight back against normalizing discourses of ethnicity, sexual and gender identity as well as nationality.

Gay Life and Liberation, a Photographic Record of 1970s Belfast

In March 2017, the first LGBTQ+ history exhibition to be displayed at a national museum in Northern Ireland debuted at the Ulster Museum. The exhibition, entitled “Gay Life and Liberation: A Photographic Exhibition of 1970s Belfast,” included private photographs captured by Doug Sobey, a founding member of gay liberation organizations in Belfast during the 1970s, and featured excerpts from oral histories with gay and lesbian activists. It portrayed the emergence of the gay liberation movement during the Troubles and how the unique social, political, and religious situation in Northern Ireland fundamentally shaped the establishment of a gay identity and community in the 1970s. By displaying private photographs and personal histories, it revealed the hidden history of the LGBTQ+ community to the museum-going public. The exhibition also enhanced and extended the histories of the Troubles, challenging traditional assumptions and perceptions of the conflict.