LITERATURE REVIEW

As discussed in my position paper during the review of the literature it becomes evident that homosexuality cannot be separated from the pandemic of HIV/AIDS. Edward Lucie-Smith (1994:103) in his book writes, “The rise to prominence of openly homosexual art, as a component within the avant garde, has often been attributed to the tragedy of the Aids epidemic.” Gendered art has always been in the public gaze in one form or another, the use of art as a form of drawing attention to HIV/AIDS and the first reported cases of the decease by the minority gay community has caused an irrevocable link between homosexuality and the pandemic. “Such images are supposedly in some way validated by the catastrophe which has befallen the gay community” (Lucie-Smith 1994:104).

The notion of gender and sexuality are used interchangeably though for academic study it would be important to draw distinctions between the two as it has a direct impact on the construction of identities. Steven Seidman (2010:18) states that “Feminists point out that all of us are introduced to the world as men or women … Gender identity is not a superficial part of our lives; it shapes our personality and social life in important ways”. I will aim to reaffirm the findings in my readings as in my opinion the issue of sexuality, gender and identity cannot be viewed in isolation. Gildert Herdt (1994:422) argues that “… the relationship between cultural categories of sex and gender-identity development remains problematic … does society have a two-sex or three-sex (or more) code …” It is my view that the hetero-homosexual binary requires some adjusting as the idea of the normative heterosexual still appears to be the prevailing pattern in a society that has morphed beyond the pure need for procreation and perpetuation of the human species. “… we are not born men or women; we acquire these gender identities through a social process of learning and sometimes coercion” (Seidman 2010:18). Gender identity is not acquired, you are born with the knowledge of who you are (though as a young person you may not have the words to verbalise your feelings and emotions that are at odds with the gender role heterosexual society would impress on you) and grow into your true nature.


Historical issues of social morality which was considered a religious issue however by the late 19th century moved to a medical matter. “Prior to the medicalization of homosexuality, same-sex sexual acts were judged by religious discourse. The concept of the “homosexual” did not exist, and deviant sexual acts were evaluated on a case by case basis focusing on contextualized specific incidents” (Meyer 2010:55). Melly (cited by Meyer 2010:55) states that homosexual acts was considered, “…as a form of sinful behaviour in which anyone might engage”. Melly does not appear in the course list, only Meyer. Delving into how it has affected the subjugation and systematic culling of homosexuals over the proceeding decades to present day are explored and important to the research and practise. “Some identities are classified as normal, healthy, and good. These identities are protected and supported …” (Seidman 2010:167).The stigma attached to being dissimilar to the perceived norm and the labelling of HIV and AIDS as the “Gay Disease” in the 1980’s which still today leaves the populace unwilling to disclose or seek treatment. In his book Herdt (1994:24) states, “… the investigation of alternative, marginal … forms of sexual practice and social realities requires a different lens of inquiry from that of normative social science.”


Unpacking the emergence of homosexual (queer) culture from the 1960’s, the influence of modern media and how it has changed perceptions as concept of homosexuality has become more mainstream and therefore excepted in parts of the Western world. Seidman (2010:71) states, “They are regularly seen on television and in movies; they are courted by politicians, given grants and awards by foundations, and embraced by many…”


The Stonewall riots of the 28 June 1969 to me seems like the rally cry that was needed to give traction to the Gay liberation movement of the 20th century. It opened the doors for people like Harvey Milk who was the first openly gay person in government office in the USA. “… Milk had announced his first candidacy for the Board of Supervisors in 1973;” (Shilts 2008:347) As an activist for the rights of LGBT people he was at the forefront of civil actions, such as marches and speeches, nothing was too big for him. He even spoke of South Africa. “ A consulate is there for one reason only – to promote business, economic gains, tourism, investment. And every time you have business going to South Africa, you’re promoting a regime that’s offensive.” ( Shilts 2008:361) This was part of a speech given by Milk in the 1970’s. So often people fight only for what is in front of them and the needs of their people. Milk however took on world views like it was issues happening in his back yard.