Discussing Homonormative Power Relations: Drag Queens in Turkey

Abstract

The aim of this study is to fill the gap of normativity discussions which is specifically based upon homonormativity, and its power relations in the context of Turkey. The study brings an understanding to culturally created norms – they are named homonormativity and a broader sense hegemonic heteronormativity in the frame of the study – with centre & periphery terms. The study adopts a qualitative research method. Homonormativity is concerned by three different approaches according to the flow of the study: i. Semi structured in-depth interviews are conducted with 5 drag queens in order to examine homonormativity from drag queens’ point of view. The interviews are voice recorded by the consent of the interviewees. The data from the interviews are analysed by using queer linguistics (QL) approach. ii. Drag queen performances are observed by the researcher with participant observation technique thus the unmarked homonormativity can be discussed by the researcher in its ordinary and common form. This part of analysis consists of observation notes and descriptions of the researcher. iii. Last, the analysis of the study also includes YouTube videos of participants – if there is a channel of the interviewee – so that the scope of the study broadens to online settings. First two methods are the representations of the physical world around drag queens and homonormative settings. On the other hand, the third step focuses on the invisible power of YouTube as a new media tool, and representation of homonormative power relations in media. This research converges to different approaches to discuss homonormative power relations which aims at making a multi-component explanation. To conclude, this thesis has partly reached its aim to understand how homonormativity mirrored itself to the drag scene of Turkey.