The (Mis)translation of Masculine Femininity in Rural Space: (Re)reading 'Queer' Women in Northern Ontario, Canada

Abstract

In this paper, I consider the complexity of gender and sexuality in the reading practices of queer women in the rural space of Northern Ontario. I argue that the cues typically associated with a 'butch' appearance, usually used to identify lesbians in urban spaces, are (mis)translated in the 'everyday' representation of a masculinized femininity, valued within the 'macho' landscape of this rural space. As a result, I examine how the expression of gender and sexuality can be explored within a socio-spatial framework, and address the constraints, barriers, and future possibilities for queer women in rural locations.