Queer spiritualities: experiences of black lesbian women in Bloemfontein

Abstract

Research on lesbian women and their sexuality has increased since the adoption of a democratic constitution in South Africa. A large part of the research has focused on the prevalence of corrective rape committed on black lesbians in South African townships. Research has also been conducted on the lived experiences of homosexuals who identify as Christian, however this research focuses predominantly on Christian’s attitudes toward homosexuals. The primary objective of this study is to gain a deeper understanding of how black lesbian women construct meaning and define their lived experiences with reference to their sexual orientation and spirituality. This exploration involves an examination of how research participants manage to integrate their spiritual/religious identities with their homosexual identity. Semi- structured interviews are conducted with six participants who have previously or currently identify as Christian, and who self-identify as lesbian. Results from the interviews are analysed using a thematic, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach.