How does digital space enable youth from global south contexts to explore, affirm and perform queer identities?
Through digital spaces, youth in global south contexts are able to express themselves and connect with like-minded individuals, regardless of geographical boundaries, without fear of persecution or judgement. This has enabled them to explore their gender and sexual identities freely, which is often difficult in physical spaces due to societal norms and pressures. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have become increasingly popular among young people who seek supportive communities where they can express themselves openly. The anonymity afforded by these platforms allows them to safely experiment with different personas, identities, and expressions.
What role do regional languages play in exploring and performing queer identities?
Regional languages play a crucial role in enabling young people from global south contexts to access resources that support their identity development and expression.
Some platforms offer specialized support groups for LGBTQ+ members, and many creators share content in local languages.
Language barriers may prevent non-native speakers from accessing this content fully. Future research should focus on developing more inclusive platform designs that cater to diverse linguistic backgrounds and make queer content accessible to all.
How might migration of content affect queer imaginaries?
Migration of content from one digital space to another can impact the way young people view and represent their identities. Content created in one platform may not translate well when it moves to another, leading to misunderstandings or misinterpretations. Moreover, content may be censored or restricted based on cultural or political differences between countries, limiting youth's ability to explore their identities freely. Research should investigate how these factors influence youth's perceptions of queerness and encourage policymakers to promote online safety and inclusivity.