Queering Confucian influences to better support queer Asian women from international student backgrounds in Australian and New Zealand higher education institutions

This thesis addresses the underrepresentation of research on queer Asian women from international student backgrounds in Australian and New Zealand Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). It explores how four queer Asian women from international student backgrounds navigate HEIs through the lens of queering Confucianism, which critically evaluates the impact of Confucian values on their migration and HEI experiences. Additionally, interviews with three Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practitioners reveal barriers in supporting these women, including racism and tokenistic initiatives within DEI spaces in HEIs. The research emphasizes the importance of inclusive policies in HEIs.