Navigating the Intersections: Culture, Work Life, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity in South Africa, Namibia, Mauritius, and Malawi

Abstract

Abstract This book chapter offers a theoretical framing of the multiple forms of oppression faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer plus (LGBTQ+) individuals in the workplaces of four Southern African countries: South Africa, Mauritius, Namibia and Malawi, drawing on literature from African gender, sexuality and identity studies. The intersectionality theory provides focus and guidance for this chapter. This chapter identified and analysed 18 studies focusing on gender constructs within African tradition and the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender plus individuals in the workplace within South Africa, Mauritius, Namibia and Malawi. The review of literature revealed that diverse sexual orientations and gender identities have existed in African cultures before colonial times. The chapter highlights the influence of colonial and Western ideologies on African traditions regarding same-sex practices, leading to rigid traditional and cultural norms. The intersecting identities of culture, gender and sexual orientation have an impact on the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender plus individuals in the workplace. Same-sex practices are viewed as not congruent with African cultures, leading to oppression in the forms of discrimination, microaggressions, stereotyping and stigmatisation towards lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender plus individuals. This chapter concludes by highlighting the urgent need for inclusive workplace policies to foster inclusive and supportive workplaces for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender plus individuals.