‘Are there gay men in the mines?’ Towards unsettling the heteronormative male occupational culture in mining

Background: Available literature indicates that the male occupational culture of South African mining industry marginalises and excludes women; however, limited attention has been given to heteronormative element this its implications on gay identities. There is a need interrogate how it hinders visibility men.Objectives: This study aims explore facilitates identities.Method: based qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with five black mineworkers who in small towns located North West Mpumalanga provinces.Results: found maintained perpetuation religious arguments cultural traditions validate heterosexuality as central component masculinity. The findings indicate sexual diversity not acknowledged industry, contributes invisibility men because fear stigma discrimination silences them.Conclusion: A undermines identities informs unequal distribution power between heterosexual men. As such, should promote develop safe working environments for men.Contribution: brings forth voices silenced minority interrogates exclusive encourage development inclusive workplaces.