Intersectionality Under Pressure: How Florida's Political Climate Shapes Queer Latine Adults’ Sense of Identity and Belonging - An Ongoing Study

The present study aims to investigate how the current political climate in Florida is influencing the sense of identity and belonging among adults with intersecting Queer and Latin American (Latine) identities. The existing literature has found that political experiences are shaped by the interaction of multiple identities rather than the addition of any single one. Additionally, political stress has been linked to multiple adverse mental and physical health outcomes. As we navigate a time of immense political uncertainty, this research seeks to understand how sociopolitical stressors influence how Queer Latine adults in Florida navigate their changing identities and sense of belonging. To investigate this topic, we are conducting a qualitative study. Participation is limited to Queer Latine adults residing in Florida at the time of the study and requires participants to respond virtually to open-ended questions addressing politics, identity, socialization, representation, and health in English or Spanish. This study aims to contribute to intersectionality literature by investigating changes in the salience of intersecting marginalized identities during times of sociopolitical pressure. Additionally, by amplifying the voices of marginalized populations and highlighting the consequences of the ongoing political climate, we aim to demonstrate the importance of having conversations surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in academic spaces.