Exploring the Lived Experiences of LGBTQIA+ People in Diverse Fields: A Qualitative Study in Urban India

This article is based on a comprehensive investigation of the lived experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersexual, and asexual plus (LGBTQIA+) individuals working in diverse fields within the urban Indian context. The study contributes to the mainstream discourse on diversity and inclusion (D&I) from the gender lens. It reveals how organizational policies, societal attitudes, and cultural norms in India influence the identity, family, and peer relationships, educational and workplace environments, support systems, and coping mechanisms of LGBTQIA+ professionals. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, data were obtained from interviews published on the “Feminism in India” website. Thematic analysis revealed seven themes, shedding light on the marginalization and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities, including the exclusion of trans individuals within feminist spaces and inadequate representation in Pride events. This research investigates nascent experiences within social and professional contexts and narrows down the focus to the LGBTQIA+ community in India. In this study, intersectionality theory is integrated to explain how sexual orientation merges with gender, caste, class, and religion to establish workplace inclusion, equity, and belonging. The themes identified in the study reveal that it is the social, personal, and structural relationships that influence the lives of LGBTQIA+ persons in urban India. Organizations and policymakers can only minimize discrimination and support positive development upon understanding these experiences.