'It's about being safe and free to be who you are': Exploring the lived experiences of queer migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in South Africa

This article presents findings from three arts-based studies conducted by the African Centre for Migration and Society, in partnerships with Gay and Lesbian Memory in Action and the Sisonke National Sex Worker Movement. Drawing on participant-created visual and narrative artefacts, the article offers insights into the complex ways in which queer migrants, refugees and asylum seekers living in South Africa negotiate their identities, resist oppression and confront stereotypes. It reveals the dynamic ways in which queer migrants, refugees and asylum seekers forge a sense of belonging in spite of concurrent vulnerabilities and structural discrimination. It also reflects on the benefits and limitations of using participatory arts-based research with marginalised groups.

Automated summary

This article presents findings from three arts-based studies conducted with queer migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in South Africa, highlighting how they negotiate identities, resist oppression, and confront stereotypes. It reveals the dynamic ways in which these individuals forge a sense of belonging despite facing vulnerabilities and discrimination. The article also reflects on the benefits and limitations of using participatory arts-based research with marginalized groups.