"Even in safe spaces... it still happens": Exploring Femmephobia within Queer Communities through the Perspective of Gay Latino Collegians

"Even in safe spaces... it still happens": Exploring Femmephobia within Queer Communities through the Perspective of Gay Latino Collegians

Presented by the Center for Research on Race and Ethnicity in Society
Co-sponsored by La Casa

Guided by the perspectives of gay Latino men in college, this qualitative study examines notions of femmephobia within queer communities, the various ways it is manifested, and the effects it has on gay Latinos. Because femmephobia is not an outgrowth nor confined to queer communities, systems of oppression are discussed, as these are what ultimately guide attitudes and behaviors that society has about different groups of people. Employing a narrative approach, students’ stories reveal that there is notable femmephobia at varying levels. Data stem from interviews and participation in a private social media page with 50 gay Latino men. Implications are offered, which are especially relevant to higher education practitioners and researchers as they look to support students in a time when queer communities are under attack at local and national levels.