Browsing by Author "Gibson, Diana M."

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    Exploring meanings of lesbian spaces in Cape Town and their perceived impact on well-being
    (University of the Western Cape, 2008) Stevens, Paschaline M. H.; Gibson, Diana M.
    Cape Town is perceived as one of the'gay capitals'of the world, yet many individuals who identify as homosexual still experience danger and harassment in this city in their everyday lives. This qualitative study was conducted with seven lesbians who live in various locations in Cape Town and who belong to different racial groups. The research focused on how lesbians experience and utilise social spaces to the benefit of their wellbeing. This thesis not only explores the meanings they attach to these spaces, it also ascertains that positive associations with places create a sense of wellness for the women in this study. Thirteen indepth interviews were conducted, and the relevant parts pertaining to this research, were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings demonstrate how these women negotiating their sexual identities in public spaces on a daily basis. They are constantly aware of their surroundings which, in tum, determine the level of self-surveillance of their behaviour. When in predominantly heterosexual public spaces, they tentatively display affection towards their partners if they perceive that environment to be potentially unsafe. Lesbian identified spaces are found to be places of safety and comfort for these women and offer the freedom for the exploration of their sexual orientation. I also illustrate that these women are not passive bystanders being subjected to potential violence, take control of their personal safety. They demonstrate agency - they cope with, and live beyond the threat of harassment and hostility.
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    Social navigation among Rwandan army deserters in South Africa
    (University of the Western Cape, 2022) Ncube, Florence; Gibson, Diana M.
    In this thesis, I explore the post military lives of Rwandan army deserters who served in, deserted from the post-conflict Rwandan Defence Force (RDF), and went into self-imposed exile. I sought to understand the transition from military to post military life in a context of exile. I argue that being a Rwandan army deserter in self-imposed exile conjures a complex form of post military life and being �on the run� is the best way to navigate Rwandan state surveillance in South Africa. An ethnography conducted in Cape Town and Johannesburg over a period of eighteen months revealed that the military to post military transition of Rwandan army deserters is complicated because these former soldiers believe that they are being �hunted� by their government.