Same-gender desire, religion, and homophobia: Challenges, complexities, and progress for LGBTIQ liberation in Africa

Abstract

The articles in this roundtable document the endurance and bravery of lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) Africans as they respond to a rising, public tide of homophobia across the continent. The authors present case studies from South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, and Zambia, focusing respectively on literature, theology, public health, and constitutional law. Together, they also highlight four general features of contemporary life for LGBTIQ Africans. First, homophobia in Africa is a result of both African and international dynamics, including attempts at Christian and Muslim proselytization. Second, LGBTIQ identities and human rights approaches to LGBTIQ liberation compete and coexist with local notions of gendered and sexual identities and their affirmation. Third, homophobia is congruent with the broader dynamics of sexism and nationalism across Africa. Finally, LGBTIQ Africans and their allies have made great strides in improving public acceptance of LGBTIQ persons. This roundtable explores these dynamics.