"Unity in Diversity is not for us" : Lesbi and Trans Men Navigating Gender, Desire, and Islam in Java, Indonesia

Abstract

Unity in Diversity is not for us explores the lived experiences of primarily Muslim lesbians and trans men (LT+) in Indonesia, where Islam is the majority religion. Using an ethnographic approach, the book traces how LT+ individuals understand their identities and negotiate their gender and desire amidst socio-religious rejection. The analysis illustrates the biographical process of coming of age as a lesbian as well as the protagonists' ability in navigating spatial gender norms, leading to fluid gender performances. Through the lens of lived religion, the book shows how LT+ actively engage in negotiating faith at the intersection of non-normative gender and desire. In their personal strategies, drawing on both dominant and alternative religious interpretations, they affirm, negate and reinterpret their contents, carving out space for their subjectivity. Combining anthropology of religion and queer studies, the book delves into the complex local interrelations of religion, gender and sexuality on the micro level. Through a macro-level analysis of recent social and political developments, it argues that Indonesia moves slowly from Unity in Diversity to Unity in Morality. The book will appeal to scholars and students studying Indonesia, Islam, gender, sexuality and religion.