Diplomatico, S., & Pacheco, M. (2019). 'Sexual identities in migration: Sexual health among Latina/o immigrants' in the United States. In R. K. Parker & J. C. Gagnon (Eds.), Handbook of LGBTQ Studies and Psychology. Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-4063245-0_25
The question of how diaspora communities negotiate traditional religious sexual norms while adapting to secular sexual cultures in host countries is one that has been studied extensively in recent years. Many scholars have argued that this negotiation process can be understood as a form of cultural adaptation, whereby individuals within diasporic communities attempt to reconcile their religious beliefs about sex with the sexual practices of their new home society. In this essay, I will discuss some of the key factors that shape the way that these groups deal with sexuality, focusing specifically on Latin American migrant communities in the United States.
One important factor that shapes the way that diaspora communities approach sexuality is the extent to which they are able to maintain close ties with their homeland. For many members of these communities, religion plays an important role in shaping attitudes towards sex and relationships. In particular, Catholicism – which is widely practiced throughout much of Latin America – tends to emphasize traditional gender roles and prohibits sexual behaviors that are not sanctioned by marriage. As a result, many Latin Americans who migrate to the US may find themselves feeling conflicted between their religious beliefs and the more liberal attitudes towards sex that prevail in their new country.
There are also other forces at work that influence the way that these communities view sex. One such force is the experience of migration itself. Migration can be a traumatic experience, and it often involves leaving behind family and friends, as well as familiar cultural norms. This sense of dislocation can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation, which can in turn contribute to increased interest in sexual exploration or risk-taking.
Living in a new culture that celebrates individual freedom and autonomy may make it difficult for diasporic immigrants to fully adhere to religious teachings that emphasize submission and obedience.
Another factor that shapes how diaspora communities negotiate traditional religious sexual norms while adapting to secular sexual cultures in host countries is economic pressure. Many Latin American immigrants come to the US seeking better job opportunities or greater financial stability, but this pursuit can sometimes conflict with religious values about modesty or frugality.
Some scholars have argued that Latina/o women who live in poverty may be more likely to engage in prostitution than those from wealthier backgrounds, since they may see this as one of the few ways to earn income. In contrast, men may feel social pressure to provide financially for their families and may engage in risky behavior (such as unprotected sex) to achieve this goal.
In addition to these internal pressures, diasporic communities also face external forces that shape their attitudes towards sex.
Media representations of sex and gender can play an important role in shaping young people's expectations about what is normal or acceptable behavior. Similarly, interactions with other groups – such as same-sex partners or transgender individuals – can challenge longstanding beliefs about gender roles or sexual identity.
Then, it seems clear that there are many complex factors at work when it comes to understanding how diasporic communities navigate sexuality in their new home countries.
The process of cultural adaptation can be a difficult one for members of diasporic communities. On the one hand, they must contend with the challenges of living in a new society while still holding onto cherished religious and cultural traditions. On the other hand, they may also find themselves drawn towards behaviors that run counter to those very same traditions.
By carefully examining these various factors and seeking support from family and community members, many Latin American immigrants are able to successfully negotiate between different sexual norms and identities.
How do diaspora communities negotiate traditional religious sexual norms while adapting to secular sexual cultures in host countries?
The negotiation of traditional sexual norms with a host country's secular culture can be challenging for members of diaspora communities. Some individuals may feel pressure to conform to the values of their new environment, while others may try to maintain their cultural beliefs and traditions. This can lead to tension within families and between community members.