This thesis examines the relationship between activism, identity and well-being
among a small group of lesbian activists in Vancouver, B.C. It explores the idea of the
margin as a site of resistance, highlighting the connection between (stigmatized)
identities and resilience. The relationship between activism and mental and physical wellbeing
is explored, political consciousness and social justice work being named as key
determinants of health.
Individual interviews with 7 lesbians (the author included) who have been active
in social justice work were conducted, as well as a focus group. A self-reflective exercise
was also undertaken to capture the researcher's thoughts and feelings throughout the
process.
This project highlights the power of identity, however shifting and unstable it may
be, in the lives of lesbian activists. Their narratives disrupt Utopian visions of lesbian
communities as ideologically homogeneous, stable and nurturing; Depicted is a more
complex image of activist networks where differential power relations exist and certain
subjectivities are privileged. Activism, despite having a negative impact on physical
health, was seen to be beneficial for mental well-being, increasing the participants' sense
of purpose, connection, and power.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:LACETR/oai:collectionscanada.gc.ca:BVAU.2429/11313 |
| Date | 05 1900 |
| Creators | Hudspith, Maria |
| Source Sets | Library and Archives Canada ETDs Repository / Centre d'archives des thèses électroniques de Bibliothèque et Archives Canada |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Relation | UBC Retrospective Theses Digitization Project [http://www.library.ubc.ca/archives/retro_theses/] |
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