Queer theory, literary diaspora studies and the law

The article examines the well attested intersections between queer studies and the state of being in diaspora. This is a metaphorical alignment and comparability based on notions of being cast out and alienated from 'home'. But when it comes to living in the diaspora or living as gay, the analogy breaks down somewhat. The article suggests that queer theory underpins the successful politicisation of gay communities to gain greater rights such as gay marriage; whereas migrant communities which live in diaspora struggle with having their own cultural practices recognised legally, especially in England where alternative marriage customs do not have the binding force of law and British Asians, for example, often have two forms of solemnisation