Queer Asian American Diasporas in the 2020s: Critical Queer Dialogical Perspectives

This panel promises a rich exploration of the Queer Asian American diaspora through the lens of four distinct papers, each contributing a unique perspective to the vibrant tapestry of experiences and identities. Presenter 1 critically analyzes Monique Truong's novel, "The Book of Salt," examining how it resignifies the concept of Vietnamese fugitivity. By analyzing the politics of freedom within the narrative, the paper illuminates the intersections of queerness, migration, and the complex historical landscape of Vietnam. Presenter 2 focuses on Leslie Cheung Kwok-Wing, a queer icon, this paper explores the transnational expansions of his fandoms, reflecting on the collective nostalgia of Hong Kong. The analysis spans two decades, shedding light on the enduring impact of Cheung's legacy in the context of migration and evolving queer identities. Presenter 3 examines the nuanced dynamics of Asian-American masochism within the realm of gay fetish studio pornography. Through a critical lens, it explores how performances in this genre contribute to the construction and negotiation of Asian-American queer identities. Presenter 4 constructs a theoretical framework for understanding "home" in the Queer Asian Diaspora. Focusing on the 2020s, it explores the concepts of diasporic joy and resistance within the context of "Gaysian" America, providing insights into the evolving landscape of queer Asian identity and belonging. Through these diverse perspectives, the panel enriches our comprehension of the intricate mosaic that is the Queer Asian American diaspora, offering profound insights into the intersections of literature, cinema, autoethnographies, and the ongoing evolution of Asian-American queer identities in the 2020s.