LGBTQ+ migrants are individuals who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, or asexual/aromantic/agender, and experience additional barriers to migration due to their gender and sexual identities. These individuals may be discriminated against for their identities during the migration process, including being denied entry into certain countries, detained or deported from others, or forced to leave behind loved ones.
They face challenges such as homelessness, unemployment, poverty, and limited access to healthcare once they arrive in new countries. The experiences of LGBTQ+ migrants can illuminate broader philosophical questions about identity, belonging, and human rights.
Philosophy
Identity is often defined as an individual's sense of self, which includes one's values, beliefs, personality traits, and physical characteristics.
These definitions do not always account for the ways in which identity can be shaped by social context, including migration and displacement.
Some LGBTQ+ migrants may feel pressured to conceal their identities while traveling through dangerous or hostile regions, leading to feelings of dissociation and isolation. They may also struggle to find supportive communities that understand their unique experiences, further exacerbating feelings of loneliness and alienation. The philosophy of existentialism suggests that people create meaning in their lives through relationships with others, but this can be difficult when those around them do not accept or understand their identities.
Belonging
Belonging refers to the feeling of connection and inclusion within a community. LGBTQ+ migrants may face difficulties finding a place where they feel welcome and accepted due to societal prejudices, cultural norms, and discriminatory policies. This can lead to feelings of alienation, marginalization, and isolation, making it difficult to establish lasting relationships and build a sense of belonging. Some LGBTQ+ migrants may seek refugee status based on persecution related to their sexuality or gender identity, highlighting the importance of belonging within a larger community. The philosophy of feminist care ethics emphasizes the need for shared responsibility between individuals to create safe and supportive environments for all.
Human rights
Human rights refer to the basic freedoms and protections guaranteed to all individuals, regardless of their identities or backgrounds. These include freedom of speech, movement, and expression, as well as protection from violence, discrimination, and exploitation.
LGBTQ+ migrants often experience violations of these rights during migration and resettlement, such as detention, harassment, and sexual assault. The philosophies of human rights and social justice emphasize the need for equitable treatment and representation for all members of society, including those who are marginalized or vulnerable.
What unique challenges do LGBTQ+ migrants face, and how do these experiences illuminate broader philosophical questions about identity, belonging, and human rights?
LGBTQ+ people face numerous challenges when they decide to migrate due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. They experience discrimination, stigma, and violence from society, which can lead to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, they may struggle to obtain legal recognition for their relationships and access to healthcare services because of homophobic laws and policies.