Queering Kinship: Non-heterosexual Couples, Parents, and Families in Guangdong, China

This book explores the experiences of Chinese non-heterosexual people who form desirable and legible queer families by going against existing state regulations and societal norms. It offers a new ethnographic perspective for queer studies and anthropology of kinship.

Format: Hardback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This captivating book delves into the profound experiences of Chinese non-heterosexual individuals who defy prevailing state regulations and societal norms to create desirable and coherent queer families. Through extensive ethnographic fieldwork in Guangdong, China, the author explores the diverse strategies employed by queer individuals to conceive and establish families of their own. The chapters shed light on the intricate processes involved in cultivating and sustaining kinship relations, as individuals navigate complex negotiations with biological relatives, cultural conventions, and state legislations. By undertaking a comprehensive analysis, the book offers a fresh and insightful ethnographic perspective on queer studies and anthropology of kinship.

The book opens with an introduction that sets the stage for the exploration that follows. The author highlights the historical context of LGBTQ+ rights in China, emphasizing the limited legal recognition and social acceptance of non-heterosexual relationships. This backdrop serves as a backdrop for the stories and experiences shared by the individuals featured in the book.

The subsequent chapters delve into the various tactics employed by queer individuals to create and sustain queer families. These tactics range from surrogacy and adoption to co-parenting and same-sex marriage. The author provides detailed accounts of the challenges and complexities involved in each of these processes, as well as the triumphs and joys that come with building a family.

One of the key themes of the book is the negotiation of kinship relations. The individuals featured in the book must navigate a complex web of biological, cultural, and legal factors to establish and maintain their families. They must confront the prejudices and discrimination faced by their relatives and society, as well as the legal and administrative barriers that often hinder their efforts.

Through their stories, the author sheds light on the emotional and psychological toll of these negotiations. The individuals must cope with the loss of traditional family structures, the rejection of their loved ones, and the struggle to find acceptance and belonging in a society that often marginalizes them. However, the book also highlights the resilience and strength of these individuals, as they find ways to build and maintain meaningful relationships with their families and communities.

Another important theme of the book is the impact of state regulations and societal norms on queer families. The author argues that these norms and regulations create barriers to family formation and perpetuate discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. The book calls for greater legal recognition and protection of LGBTQ+ rights, as well as a shift in societal attitudes towards acceptance and inclusivity.

The book concludes with a reflection on the significance of this research for queer studies and anthropology of kinship. The author argues that the experiences of Chinese non-heterosexual individuals offer a unique perspective on the complexities of family formation and kinship relations. By studying these experiences, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of the diverse ways in which individuals navigate the challenges of identity, sexuality, and family in different cultural contexts.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in queer studies, anthropology, or family dynamics. It offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the experiences of Chinese non-heterosexual individuals as they navigate the complexities of family formation and kinship relations. Through its analysis, the book provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in different parts of the world.

Weight: 468g
Dimension: 240 x 161 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529233278