Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Gender Studies and Sexuality, 2024
Year: 2024
DOI:
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‘Kampvegters vir die Klitterati’ – A linguistical exploration of South African Queer Identifying Women and Non-Binary Individuals
Ms. Megan Williams & Prof. Johanita Kirsten
ABSTRACT:
This research project explores the vital role of language in communication and connection within the global LGBTQIA+ community, which often faces marginalization worldwide. Focusing on the practice of “Queerspeech” among Afrikaans-speaking Queer identifying women and Nonbinary individuals in South Africa, the study addresses two fundamental questions. Firstly, it delves into the diverse aspects of “Queerspeech” and how it functions within the targeted group. Secondly, it investigates how “Queerspeech” serves as a means of self-identification and as a symbol within the broader LGBTQIA+ community. The research aims to contribute to Lavender lexicon studies globally, moving beyond the traditional focus on white homosexual male speakers. To achieve its goals, the study involves participants from various backgrounds, with 98 questionnaires and 4 interviews completed by individuals of different ages, sexual identities, and gender identities within the Afrikaans Queer women and Nonbinary communities. The emphasis is on analysing the terminology used, considering its significance, not only to the individual speakers, but also within the broader LGBTQIA+ society and its cultural context. The data analysis reveals a consistent theme of community and belonging fostered through “Queerspeech,” indicating a collective sense of unity. Moreover, the findings suggest that “Queerspeech” serves as a universal tool for self-expression and exploration across all age categories, with terminology primarily revolving around identity indicators. In the 21st century, “Queerspeech” is portrayed as a means for openly expressing and exploring identity, emphasizing the evolving role of language in fostering connections, affirming identities, and facilitating self-discovery within the global LGBTQIA+ community.
keywords: Feminist Linguistics; Lavender Lexicon; Queer Linguistics; Queerspeech; Sociolinguistics