Intersectional Masculinities in Heteronormative Spaces: Exploring Power and Privilege amongst Gay Men in South Africa

Abstract

This paper discusses the power differentials between various gay men that shape the construction of multiple unequal gay masculinities in South Africa. I argue that there is no single homogenous gay masculinity but multiple gay masculinities informed by various intersections that privilege some gay men while disadvantaging others. Considering the historical and continuing unequal racial divisions, class differences, power differentials, and gender normativity, this paper presents an intersectional analysis of three gay masculinities: White gay masculinity, Black middle-class gay masculinity, and Black working-class township gay masculinities. Intersections of race, gender, sexuality, class, and space shape power differentials amongst gay men in the same manner as heterosexual men, and through a review of literature, the paper demonstrates how intersectionality can help develop nuanced understandings of gay masculinities in South Africa. The paper highlights the need to interrogate the multifaceted nature of South African gay masculinities through an intersectional lens.