Experiences of racialisation for LBQ women and non-binary persons of colour in Swedish queer spaces

This article explores the experiences of ten LBQ women and non-binary persons of colour in Swedish queer spaces. Using the concepts of homonationalism, subordinated inclusion, and recognition, it analyses how participants experience both inclusion and exclusion and the strategies they develop to navigate these dynamics. The study highlights the dual expectations they face: the pressure to come out within the predominantly white LGBTQ community and wider society, and the expectation - often linked to family norms - to remain closeted. Participants described uncertainty about coming out due to potential consequences for themselves and their relationships. Findings point to the silence surrounding racialisation and colour blindness, as well as tensions around political engagement. Participants seek to gain recognition without being required to engage in political work, and some address this by turning to separatist spaces for persons of colour. Swedish and Western norms shape queer spaces in ways that maintain boundaries around whiteness. Participants describe either adapting to gain access via a form of subordinate inclusion, or seeking recognition in separatist environments accessible to persons of colour.