Queering urban space through informal recreation: The experiences of a queer, predominantly Asian volleyball community in New York City

Abstract

This study explores the process of queering public leisure spaces through the intentional use of ‘pop-up’ informal volleyball play. Specifically, this study employed qualitative semi-structured interviews and participant observations to interrogate the ways in which a community of queer, predominantly Asian ‘volleyballers’ engage in the animation of public spaces through volleyball and associated activities. The meanings behind such actions are also explored. Specific attention is paid to the role of informal volleyball gatherings during social distancing measures resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the ways in which volleyball is used to challenge homophobia, transphobia, racism, xenophobia, and the sharp rise in anti-Asian violence. Findings contribute to understanding the role of informal leisure and pop-up spaces in queer lives and placemaking, highlighting the particular importance of this placemaking for queer Asian individuals and communities.