Haitian Vodou and sexual orientation

Homosexuality in Haitian Vodou is religiously acceptable and homosexuals are allowed to participate in all religious activities.[1] However, in West African countries with major conservative Christian and Islamic views on LGBTQ people, the attitudes towards them may be less tolerant if not openly hostile and these influences are reflected in African diaspora religions following Atlantic slave trade which includes Haitian Vodou.[2]

Haitian Vodou itself has remained open to people of all sexual orientations.[3] It is common knowledge in Haiti that a significant number of Haitian Vodou are gay.[3] Many LGBT people in Haiti believe that it is easier to be open about one's sexuality and gender expression within Vodou culture, in the face of open hostility by mainstream Haitian society.[3]

  1. ^ Ahmed, Beenish (2016), Queer Haitians Find a Refuge in Vodou, Advocate
  2. ^ Theo G. M. Sandforta; Vasu Reddyb (2017), "African same-sex sexuality and gender-diversity: an introduction", Culture, Health & Sexuality, 15 (Suppl): 1–6, doi:10.1080/13691058.2013.797218, PMC 5588020, PMID 23802577
  3. ^ a b c The Impact of the Earthquake, and Relief and Recovery Programs on Haitian LGBT People (PDF). Briefing paper (Report). International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission and SEROvie. 2011.