Abstract
The purpose of this study was to deconstruct the meaning of machismo in the Latinx culture and examine if it perpetuates homophobia/anti-queerness. This study also examined the effects machismo has on queer Latinx individuals. This research Project aimed to gain knowledge and provide insight and perspectives to barriers queer Latinx individuals face around machismo, homophobia, and anti-queerness within their own culture. A mix methods design was used by combining quantitative and qualitative data in the form of questionnaires and in-depth interviews as measure instruments. A non-probability sampling design including both snowball and convenience sample techniques were used to acquire 30 participants. The data showed that an overwhelming number of queer Latinx participants felt that machismo contributed to homophobia, anti-queerness, feelings of rejection, oppression, and barriers with family and religion. This study demonstrated the need to include queer and trans voices in the conversation surrounding machismo and the need to further examine the damaging implications machismo has on queer Latinx individuals.