“Care is a very big word”: conceptualizations, reflections, and perceptions related to healthcare, space, and identity amongst queer, young Texans

Abstract

The modern healthcare industry overwhelmingly advantages white, cisgender, non-disabled, wealthy, heterosexual people to the disadvantage of all people who fall beyond these narrow identities. This trend is explained by existing scholars through various deconstruction means related to Marxism, neoliberalism, and histories of white supremacy in the United States. Outside of leftist scholarship, topics related to healthcare, including abortion and private insurance, are not understood completely enough to make way for meaningful change. In this thesis project, queer Texans in their 20s share their lived experiences and their experiences in healthcare settings in the United States. Abolitionist theory creates new opportunities for understanding and overcoming inequity and discriminatory systemic practices. This qualitative research project explores possibilities for a more equitable, safe, healthy world, and relies heavily on the retold lives of queer Texans