Keywords:
Religion, attitudes, cultures, identities, human rights, gender, inclusion, marginalization
Abstract
The role of religion in shaping societal attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community remains a complex and often contentious issue across cultures and regions. This paper explores how various religious doctrines, traditions, and institutional practices influence perceptions of LGBTQ+ identities, behaviors, and rights. Drawing on interdisciplinary sources—including theology, sociology, psychology, and human rights—it examines both affirming and non-affirming religious responses to sexual and gender diversity. While some religious interpretations have historically contributed to the marginalization of LGBTQ+ individuals, others have evolved to support inclusion and dignity. The paper further analyzes the broader social consequences of these religiously-informed attitudes, particularly their impact on the pursuit of social equality, legal recognition, and mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals. Ultimately, the study highlights the need for fostering more equitable and compassionate societies, while also addressing issues of religious freedom and human rights in pluralistic democracies.
Author Biography
Narendra Narottam
is an Assistant Professor in Political Science, National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India since 2012. He has over two decades of teaching and research experience in the fields of Political Science, Management and Law. He has completed his Graduation and Post-Graduation in Political Science from the University of Allahabad. He also completed his doctorate (Ph.D.) programme from Banaras Hindu University in the year 2001. The area of his research mainly pertains to the study and functioning of Local Self Government in Uttar Pradesh. He had been a recipient of various research fellowships including Junior Research Fellowship (UGC) along with UGC-NET in the subject of Political Science. He also possesses post graduate degree in Management programme (MBA with specialization in Human Resource Management) and a degree in Law. Apart from academics Dr. Narottam has also performed a number of administrative duties in various capacities during his past services since 2003 which includes the positions of Controller of Examinations, Chief Proctor, Registrar in Charge and Chief Course Coordinator at National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi as well as Head of Department, BBA programme at Rajarshi School of Management Technology, Udai Pratap Autonomous College, Varanasi etc. He has successfully completed several Orientation and Faculty Development Programs, Workshops, Symposiums at various Universities of repute in the past. He has also delivered multiple lecture series on various topics of both polity and management in several organizations and universities of repute. He has attended over two dozen National and International Seminars and FDP along with the paper presentations on various themes and issues. He has also published several research papers, book chapters and articles in different Journals and Books
How to Cite
Narendra Narottam. “Role of Religion in Shaping Attitudes Towards the LGBTQ+ Community and Its Impact on Social Equality”. Samyukta: A Journal of Gender and Culture, vol. 10, no. 2, Feb. 2026, https://samyuktajournal.in/journal/index.php/sgc/article/view/269.
Section
Health humanities Articles
