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Where Love Dares (Not) Speak Its Name: The Expression of Homosexuality in Singapore

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  • Kean Fan Lim

    (Department of Geography, National University of Singapore, 1 Arts Link, Singapore 117570, Republic of Singapore, g0305818@reus.edu.sg)

Abstract

Adopting Henri Lefebvre's spatial conceptual triad, this paper provides a critical investigation into the socio-spatial expression of homosexuality in Singapore. It explores how social space is not ontological, but constructed and reinforced as heterosexual. Specifically, an analysis is made of the roles of statistics, educational content and legal tools in fortifying heteronormativity. However, this paper contends that homosexuals in Singapore are not merely passive subjects entirely dominated by heterosexual norms/regulations. They have demonstrated, through subtle strategies of overt expressions in public spaces, that they are conscious and creative agents who are able to contest the heteronormative milieu in which they live. This is exemplified by the successful organisation of the 'Nation' party by homosexuals in the past three years and the rise in artistic expressions of homosexual-related themes/issues. Of course, the extent to which homosexuals are allowed to transgress heterosexual norms remains contingent on dominant (heterosexual) actors, and the paper critically interrogates why they have been allowed more space to do so in recent years.

Suggested Citation

  • Kean Fan Lim, 2004. "Where Love Dares (Not) Speak Its Name: The Expression of Homosexuality in Singapore," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 41(9), pages 1759-1788, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:41:y:2004:i:9:p:1759-1788
    DOI: 10.1080/0042098042000243147
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Guy Baeten, 2002. "Hypochondriac geographies of the city and the new urban dystopia," City, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 6(1), pages 103-115, April.
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