The Many Coloured Rainbow: Exploring Identity and Wellbeing in LGBTQIA+ Individuals with Refugee and Asylum-Seeker Backgrounds

Abstract

The experiences of LGBTQIA+ people with refugee/asylum-seeker backgrounds, though diverse, can share common ground. Research shows that these individuals often must choose between their culture and their gender/sexual identity, frequently needing to conceal their identities to reduce the threat of victimisation in their country of origin. Research within this cohort is minimal, and in particular, very little research exists examining the impact these experiences may have upon identity and the relationship between identity and wellbeing in this cohort. This qualitative study examined interview accounts from 15 participants, including nine service providers from various industries and six LGBTQIA+ refugees (n=3) and asylum-seekers (n=3). Reflexive thematic analysis generated five themes, which were viewed through the lens of Narrative Identity, namely: 1) "Constantly Stuck in Two Worlds": Navigating Multiple Identities, 2) Experiences in Countries of Origin have Formative Influences on Identity, 3) Gender and Sexual Identity Journey, 4) Life as a Rainbow Refugee or Asylum-Seeker, and 5) "Feeling Like You Belong Here is Really Important": Safe Spaces and Faces. Findings highlighted how cultural systems, both in origin and resettlement countries, influence understandings of identity; particularly how experiences tied to cultural master narratives influence understanding and acceptance of a non-heteronormative identity and, in turn, how that impacts wellbeing. Findings further demonstrated that the emphasis on integration found within acculturation frameworks may not suit this cohort. The research points to the specific support needs of socially isolated LGBTQIA+ refugees/asylum-seekers and a need for services at the intersection of their multiple marginalised identities. Keywords: LGBTQIA+; refugees and asylum-seekers; narrative identity; gender and sexual identity; master narratives; acculturation