This paper examines the idea of “coming out as undocumented,” arguing that while it increases visibility for marginalized communities, it often fails to challenge prevailing stigmas and calls for a shift from identity celebration to political action for meaningful systemic change.
Author
Raffaela Puggioni, Professor, Jindal School of International Affairs, O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat, Haryana, India
Summary
By focusing on the notion of ‘coming out as undocumented’, this concept paper critically explores whether identity politics has the potential to transform dominant ‘illegalisation’ processes.
It argues that although the coming out strategy has helped make marginalised communities more visible and audible, it does not necessarily help disrupt dominant stigmas.
Drawing upon insights from Disability Studies and Fat and Queer Politics, it suggests that the celebration of stigmatised identities through coming out events does not necessarily disrupt and transform unequal systems.
What is needed is a radical shift in focus: from identity celebration to political projects, from an ‘unliveable’ present to an inclusive tomorrow.
Published in: Societies
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