Space, power and sexuality: transgressive and transformative possibilities at the interstices of spatial boundaries

Abstract

The themed section consists of articles that explore the relationship between power and space in relation to gender and sexuality by looking at processes of transgression, subversion or expansion of normative spatial practices and narratives. Using a theoretical framework that draws out power and space within a more specific context of feminist and queer literature, the articles explore the possibility to transgress, subvert or expand norms at the interstices of spatial boundaries beyond traditional binaries and hierarchies. Collectively, the articles call for a continued theoretical and methodological focus into the importance of looking at everyday sites of struggles and resistance in the crevasses, the liminal zones of space. The transgression of spatialized norms of sexuality and gender present a transformative potential that should be recognized for its political significance but, we argue, with caution as heteronormative and heteropatriarchal norms too often remain de rigueur in a neoliberal context.

Unpacking pervasive heteronormativity in sub-Saharan Africa: Opportunities to embrace multiplicity of sexualities

“…Brown et al (2007) assert that power in spaces should be explored to understand the practices of resistance that cannot be separated from heteronormative domination and privilege. Queer theory plays a significant role in challenging the hegemonic structures of power relations governing sexual identities, as well as their embodiment by highlighting narratives and practices that contest heteronormativity (Peyrefitte and Sanders-McDonagh, 2018). In addition, queer theory informs a non-binary approach to the literature on geographies of sexualities and the conceptualization of space as fluid and not fixed.…”

“…Queer people are often affected by the systematic arrangements of power that society awards them, suggesting ways in which sexuality can be expressed and lived in different spaces and places (Cresswell, 2010; Peyrefitte and Sanders-McDonagh, 2018). Brown et al (2007) assert that power in spaces should be explored to understand the practices of resistance that cannot be separated from heteronormative domination and privilege.…”

Queer and trans* geographies of liminality: A literature review

“…Liminality is invoked in some of this work. Magali Peyrefitte and Erin Sanders-McDonagh (2018), for example, discuss how hegemonic structures of power govern the sexual production of space, leaving few spaces for alternative meanings and experiences, and propose ‘interstices’ and ‘liminal spaces’ as subversive urban spaces, spaces of survival to marginalized populations. Invoking ‘queer’ spaces of sex work, sex shops, and online porn sites, the authors suggest that ‘liminal zones’ are politically important and transformative spaces in the city.…”