2023 Theses Master's

Post Migration Mental Health Impacts of Drag Culture Participation among LGBTQ2I+ refugees in Canada

Kazeminy, Amira

Using Intersectional, Minority Stress, and Grounded theoretical principles, and a qualitative interview and quantitative survey approach, this studies examines the mental health impacts of participation in drag culture on LGBTQ2I+ refugees and forced migrants living in Canada.

The findings demonstrate that LGBTQ2I+ refugees in Canada who interact with the drag community have increased positive mental health outcomes as a result of reduced avoidance of LGBTQ2I+ activities; increased exploration and performance of gender, sexual orientation; access to resources; sense of community; and improved confidence and sense of freedom.

The results also demonstrated that more governmental and institutional supports are needed for LGBTQ2I+ immigrants in Canada to better navigate the immigration system and access education, jobs, and housing, in addition to an expansion of drag culture styles and ethnic, linguistic, and socioeconomic diversity in order to better welcome and accommodate queer individuals from other nations. Ultimately, this study aimed to bring greater insight into the mental health impacts of drag participation for LGBTQ2I+ refugees in Canada.