A comunidade surda LGBT+ em Portugal: Desafios e inclusão

Abstract

The intersection between deafness and sexual orientation and/or gender identity generates specific challenges that remain largely unexplored in Portugal. This study aimed to understand the experiences of LGBT+ Deaf people and to identify barriers to inclusion, particularly in health care, education, and social participation. To achieve this, a qualitative approach was adopted, and ten adult Deaf individuals who use Portuguese Sign Language were interviewed. The results, analyzed using the thematic analysis framework proposed by Braun and Clarke (2006), revealed six central themes: (1) Intersectional identity and self-discovery, marked by social invisibility; (2) Discrimination and audism, experienced both in hearing society and within the Deaf and LGBT+ communities themselves; (3) Communication barriers, including the scarcity of interpreters trained in diversity issues; (4) Information gaps and feelings of mistrust, which hinder access to health care and psychological well-being; (5) Lack of inclusive policies, professional training, and educational materials accessible in Portuguese Sign Language; and (6) Hope for a future with greater recognition of inclusive education and representativeness. The main findings of this research demonstrate that double marginalization limits access to rights, restricts social participation, and underscores the relevance of intersectionality as both an analytical and political tool. Therefore, the study highlights the need to invest in adapted health services, professional training, inclusive educational campaigns, and the promotion of Portuguese Sign Language as an essential instrument for equity, dignity, and genuine inclusion.