Feminist Ethnographic Qualitative Interviews Unveiling Gender-Based Violence Targeting Black Lesbians in Cape Town Townships

Abstract

The study is to bring awareness to public healthcare professionals and law enforcement about the discrimination faced by Black lesbians in townships when seeking support after the rape and to encourage an empathetic and responsive approach to addressing their needs. The research applied a qualitative research design of in-depth interviews with 17 Black lesbian women living in township areas of Cape Town. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The results of the study indicate that Black lesbian women in townships experience high levels of GBV, including corrective rape, and face significant stigma from both their communities and outside of townships. Participants also reported a lack of support from law enforcement and the legal system. The study took place in Cape Province, South Africa. The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for policymakers and civil society organisations to prioritise the issue of GBV against Black lesbians in township areas of Cape Town. Recommendations include increasing awareness and education around the issue, improving access to support services for survivors, and executing interventions to reduce stigma and discrimination.