The experiences of gay and lesbian first-generation immigrants to Canada: Negotiating identities post-migration

The present study explored the experiences of gay and lesbian first-generation immigrants to Canada by conducting semi-structured interviews with 10 participants and employing Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The focus was on the negotiation of sexual identity and other central identities post-immigration in the context of diverse and, at times, contrasting cultural influences and social affiliations. Psychological literature on sexual minority first-generation migrants is rare, especially within the Canadian research terrain. Participants provided rich discourse around four main themes: (A) Changes and acceptance of sexual identity post-immigration, (B) Intrapersonal negotiation of sexuality with cultural values and ethnic identities, (C) Interpersonal negotiation of sexuality across cultural boundaries, and (D) Post-immigration reflection and resilience. The findings highlight the crucial role of Canadian LGBTQ+ rights and communal spaces in solidifying sexual identity, particularly for individuals from countries with anti-LGBTQ+ laws. The study also importantly addresses the ongoing stigmatization participants face in Canada, both from their ethnic or national communities and from Western LGBTQ+ communities, emphasizing the complex and multifaceted nature of their otherization. The study expands existing frameworks by providing a holistic view of the participants' challenges and offers insight for improving support systems within the Canadian context.