The role of activists’ sexual orientation and gender identity in their participation in LGBT movements: a case study from Yunnan, China

Abstract

The role played by activists’ sexual orientation and gender identity in their involvement and commitment to LGBT movements is an understudied area in the Chinese context. Using identity and dramaturgical theory, this qualitative study explored how activists’ work and commitment toward promoting LGBT rights and services is shaped and influenced by their identities. The study draws on data from life history interviews conducted with 20 long-time LGBT activists in Yunnan, China. The findings indicate that their sexual orientation and gender identities were, in the long run, seen as assets by the activists that shaped their work and commitment in the LGBT movement. Despite initial challenges in establishing identity-based connections with co-workers/clients, the emergence of sense of inclusiveness through recognition of activists’ efforts, particularly when working with diverse gender and sexual minorities, stands out as a prominent theme in this context. This dynamic is important in bolstering the longevity of activists’ commitment and building the continued momentum of LGBT movements in the region and internationally.

Keywords:

• Activist
• LGBT activism
• LGBT movement in China
• inclusion
• sexual orientation and gender identity

Acknowledgements

We extend our gratitude to the frontline LGBT activists in Yunnan who participated in this study and gave their support to the research. We also thank the journal editor and three anonymous reviewers for their insightful and constructive feedback which helped strengthen the work.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1 Throughout this study, we use the acronym LGBT because respondents were familiar with it and found the four-letter term easy to use.

Additional information

Funding

This research is part of a doctoral dissertation. The first author was partially supported for their graduate degree via a scholarship awarded by China Scholarship Council to Chinese students in the university.