This thesis explores the relationship between queer political organizing and the presence -- or absence -- of formal queer language, challenging the assumption that queerness is a Western construct with limited applicability elsewhere. While the formalized term "queer" and its theoretical foundations emerged in the United States, the core principles of queer organizing – the rejection of state-centric activism, resistance to heteronormativity, and an emphasis on community care -- exist in movements worldwide, even in the absence of explicit queer terminology. Through comparative case studies of the United States and South Africa, this research examines how non-state, community-driven approaches to sexual rights and organizing align with queer theoretical principles, both with and without named queer identifiers. By demonstrating that queer politics are not contingent on linguistic labeling, this project contributes to broader discussions on the intersection of queer theory, global activism, and the limitations of identity-based frameworks in international rights discourse.
First and foremost, I would like to thank Professor Movindri Reddy for her unwavering care, feedback, and patience throughout this process. Her guidance has not only shaped this thesis into what it is today, but her genuine concern for my personal wellbeing has deeply impacted my confidence as a researcher. Because of her mentorship, I feel better equipped to approach any future academic endeavor with clarity and self-assurance. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Professor Lan Chu, both for overseeing the early stages of this thesis and for writing no less than 10,000 letters of recommendation during my time at Occidental College. Professor Chu's mentorship throughout my study of Diplomacy and World Affairs has been foundational in shaping both my academic interests and my passion for the field, and I am deeply grateful to have had her in my corner as I've grown and evolved as a student. Lastly, I would like to warmly thank Professor Claire Crawford for sparking the initial inspiration for this project. My interest in the transformative potential of queer movements was first ignited when she assigned Cathy Cohen's "Punks, Bulldaggers, and Welfare Queens" during my first year at Occidental. I credit her with cultivating a passion for research that will stay with me for many years to come, and teaching me for the first time what it means to be a queer scholar.