Feminist accountability: deconstructing feminist praxes, solidarities and LGBTQI+ activisms in Ghana

Abstract

This article examines how mainstream feminist organizations in Ghana worked to support LGBTQI+ communities when they were subjected to state and institutionalized violence in February 2021. Through an African feminist critical discourse analysis (FCDA) of the solidarity statements issued by feminist and gender advocacy organizations, I highlight the way that mainstream feminist groups relate to LGBTQI+ communities. I argue that although there is increasing visibility in activism and organizing around issues affecting queer and trans Ghanaians, feminist and gender advocacy groups which have dominated the organizing space in the country are actively working to undermine the work that radical activists are doing to create a better society for LGBTQI+ people. I contextualize the study within recent theory and praxis around queer and trans issues while drawing attention to the ways that feminist groups are falling short when it comes to LGBTQI+ organizing in the country and what they could do better.