How to Navigate Being Black and Queer

Navigating the intersectionality of being Black and queer can be a complex and challenging journey. That’s why I’m here to give you some tips on how you, yes you, can put your worries aside and be the beautiful Black star you were born to be!

Learning Your Identity – Both of Them

It’s important to realize that as a queer, Black , individual, your identity consists of multiple aspects that need to be treated as such. There are so many rich and unique features of being a part of the Black community, and you should be able to incorporate these features into your queerness. Similarly, the queer community has so many unique features that can carry on into your blackness. In fact, there are several features of both communities that intersect with one another, and through your experiences you can find comfort in these features.

Support and Community

Finding a community within a community isn’t always easy. As a college student, I find it hard to connect with campus community members. Attempting to choose between the Black Students Union and the GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) Club was very challenging and limiting. Why couldn’t there be one club that catered to both aspects of my identity? Finding a safe space wasn’t easy, as I was no stranger to experiencing racism in queer designated environments, and homophobia in Black designated environments. For many people, this situation is quite common.

To that, I recommend branching out and finding designated spaces for Black and queer individuals. Several organizations have dedicated spaces for Black and queer individuals. Whether it be a workshop, event or simply just a hangout space, researching local or online communities can be a great way to meet others in the same situation as you.

Be Who You Are

As cliche as it is, embracing who you are is a big step in navigating your intersectional identity. Remember, don’t just embrace one part, embrace them all!

Written by Elysia Williams