Understanding Homonationalism

Homonationalism refers to the use of gay liberation rhetoric by Western nations to justify colonial and imperial actions, particularly in Muslim countries. This concept is explored through the lens of Jasbir K. Puar’s work, which highlights how the language of anti-homophobia is often employed to obscure continued violence against marginalized populations. Puar illustrates this with examples such as Israeli soldiers using the pride flag as a symbol of liberation in occupied Palestinian territories, thus framing their actions as progressive while perpetuating oppression. This manipulation of language not only reinforces Western superiority but also masks the homophobic realities that persist within these same Western societies.