Giving voice to emerging science and theory for lesbian, gay, and bisexual people of color.

Abstract

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) people of color may experience multiple layers of oppression, as they often not only contend with the negative societal reactions to their sexual orientation but also may experience racial prejudice, limited economic resources, and limited acceptance within their own cultural community. Despite the range of psychosocial issues that may be encountered by this population, and the need to understand factors that promote resiliency and well-being, the empirical psychological literature has virtually ignored LGB people of color. This article provides general background regarding the empirical research needs and concerns regarding LGB people of color and introduces the articles included in this special issue. Recommendations for increasing research with LGB people of color are offered.

Thriving and Adapting: Resilience, Sense of Community, and Syndemics among Young Black Gay and Bisexual Men

“…Sexual minority communities have historically been studied from a deficits perspective in which pathology and problem behavior take center stage (Beasley, Jenkins & Valenti, 2015). As Harper, Jernewall and Zea (2004) argue, the voices of healthy Black sexual minorities are almost entirely absent in the academic literature. In particular, much of the literature addressing the HIV burden among Black GBM focuses on poor outcomes and the conditions giving rise to negative health (Harper, Brodsky & Bruce, 2012).…”

Evaluation of a Culturally Inclusive Model of Sexual Minority Identity Formation

“…By comparison, the experiences of sexual minority women of color remain largely invisible in the empirical literature (Harper et al, 2004).…”

“…Researchers have noted that the unique cultural experiences of racial/ethnic minority persons rarely have been incorporated into theories and models of sexual identity development (Croteau et al, in press;Fukuyama & Ferguson, 2000;Harper, Jernewall, & Zea, 2004;Parks et al, 2004). Previous research on sexual minority identity development has been conducted on predominantly White, middle class samples of older gay men (Parks et al, 2004).…”

“…Prior empirical research on sexual minority persons of color rarely has included an exclusive focus on the experiences of women (Greene, 2000;Harper et al, 2004).…”

Trans* employment program support elements for a supportive and inclusive employment program for trans individuals in Vancouver (located on the traditional territories of the Coast Salish Peoples).

“…With masculinization and feminization medical treatments, including surgery, removal of hair and endocrine therapy that some trans* people undergo these processes can affect a person's ability to work. Harder and Scott (2005) advised that the "success of DM in the future will rely on its ability to accommodate the needs o f people with chronic conditions" (p.200). As people's transitions and healing differentiates from one another, there is potential for some people's conditions to become chronic.…”