The phrase "globalization" refers to increasing economic, political, cultural, social, and technological interconnectedness across the world through various means such as trade, migration, communication, transportation, and information exchange. One aspect of globalization is its impact on identities and cultures which may involve processes of homogenization and hybridization resulting in the creation of new ways of being and seeing oneself and others. In terms of sexuality and gender, globalization has facilitated the spread of ideas and experiences related to sex, sexuality, eroticism, intimacy, and relationships beyond local and national boundaries, thus enabling more visibility for queer practices that were previously invisible or marginalized. At the same time, it also brings about challenges for local communities, including the potential loss of indigenous knowledge and the dominance of western hegemony, leading to the erasure of some non-western queer practices. This article explores these dynamics in depth.
In terms of visibility, globalization has made it possible for individuals to access diverse sources of information about queerness, including books, movies, television shows, music, artworks, and online platforms from different parts of the world. The internet has played a crucial role in this by allowing for instantaneous communication between people separated by geographical distance and fostering transnational networks that cross linguistic and cultural barriers. As a result, some local communities have become more aware of queer practices beyond their own borders, and individuals within those communities have felt empowered to embrace and celebrate their sexual orientations, genders, and identities despite societal stigma and discrimination.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) organizations based in South Asia use social media to share information on LGBTI issues and build solidarity with queer movements globally, contributing to increased awareness and acceptance of LGBTI individuals in India and Pakistan.
There are instances where globalization can lead to the erasure of local queer practices. One example is the adoption of western norms and values regarding sex, sexuality, and gender as standards against which local practices are measured and judged. In Africa, for instance, colonizers imposed Christian beliefs that criminalized homosexuality, resulting in the suppression or silencing of indigenous queer cultures and practices. Even today, many countries continue to impose colonial-era laws that penalize same-sex relationships while promoting heteronormative ideals. This homogenizing effect of globalization can also happen through the diffusion of Western pop culture such as music, fashion, and movies that often portray homosexuality in stereotypical ways that reinforce negative perceptions about it. The dominance of Western hegemony has led to the neglect of non-western perspectives on sex and sexuality, including traditional gender roles, family structures, and kinship systems.
Globalization's impact on economics and politics can contribute to the disappearance of local queer practices.
Rapid urbanization and economic growth have led to the influx of migrants into cities, leading to a concentration of diverse populations from different parts of the world, including those who identify as LGBTQ+.
The economic and political power of these groups may overshadow the voices and experiences of marginalized communities within their host countries. Similarly, the expansion of tourism industries can create an exoticized view of queer identities and practices, leading to commercial exploitation without benefits for locals beyond increased visibility. At the same time, globalization has created opportunities for some individuals to travel and explore new places, which may lead them to adopt more liberal attitudes towards sexuality and gender, contributing to changes in local cultural norms.
Globalization brings both advantages and disadvantages for the visibility and erasure of local queer practices. While it has contributed to increased awareness and acceptance of queerness globally, it has also led to the spread of colonial ideologies, the loss of indigenous knowledge, and the marginalization of certain groups. It is essential to balance the positive aspects of globalization with efforts to preserve and celebrate local cultures, promote pluralistic perspectives, and empower marginalized individuals. This requires collective action by governments, organizations, and individuals to ensure that all voices are heard and respected in a rapidly changing world.
How does globalization influence the visibility and erasure of local queer practices?
Globalization has influenced the visibility and erasure of local queer practices by creating new spaces for expression and recognition but also by reinforcing normative ideas about gender and sexuality that make it difficult for some people to openly identify as queer. The increased availability of information and connectivity facilitated by globalization have made it easier for queer individuals to find support and community online, while also providing platforms for sharing their experiences with a broader audience.