Bodies from the Dark Continent

Abstract

This dissertation explores how stigmas affect the experiences of Gay Black men living in Scotland, and the methods of activism that have been employed to combat discrimination. To investigate the effects of stigma on Gay Black men in Scotland an intersectional, discourse and content analysis of Scottish LGBT media was performed. Using poetry, essays and interviews from their standpoint, I used a Black Feminist approach as a form of activism to understand the effects of stigmas on gay Black men in Scotland. The findings revealed that LGBT Scottish media adopted discursive practices of the state to stigmatize Black gay men of African and Caribbean descent, which led to internalized homophobia due to multiple intersecting oppressions. These stigmas were rooted in colonialist rhetoric, which reproduced social inequality for gay Black men. Despite facing covert forms of discrimination, gay Black men used their agency to combat racism and homophobia through activism within the U.K. I conclude that recognizing and challenging harmful historical representations and creating more inclusive legislation can lead to better life chances for gay Black men.