1. Religion, Hate, Love, and Advocacy for LGBT Human Rights in Saint Lucia.
- Author
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Williams, Charmaine C., Forbes, Joelleann Rose, Placide, Kenita, and Nicol, Nancy
- Subjects
HUMAN rights advocacy ,SEXUAL rights ,LGBTQ+ couples ,RELIGIONS ,RELIGIOUS institutions ,HATE - Abstract
Introduction: This article explores how religion and religious institutions affect the lives of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) people living in Saint Lucia. Methods: Drawing on thirty-three interviews conducted as part of an international human rights project, we explore the role that religion can play in both reinforcing marginalization and promoting human rights for sexual minority people. Results: Thematic analysis of interview data reveals ways in which religion is the foundation for life in Saint Lucia and both marginalizes and sustains sexual minority lives. Conclusions: Although churches are often viewed as major opponents to LGBT human rights, participants discussed hopes and strategies for churches to become allies in advocating for inclusion. Policy Implications: We conclude that Saint Lucia is a context in which work toward human rights for sexual minority people must include attention to religion as a powerful and meaningful component of peoples' lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
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