The Intersection of Race and Queerness in Advocacy: Supporting Black LGBTQIA+ Youth

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the resilience, brilliance, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. While we honor the past, we must also recognize the present struggles and triumphs of Black LGBTQIA+ youth, who navigate unique challenges at the intersection of race and queerness. At Out Youth, we believe that advocacy must be intersectional, ensuring that all queer youth, regardless of race, feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Understanding the Challenges Faced by Black LGBTQIA+ Youth

Black LGBTQIA+ youth often experience compounded discrimination stemming from both their racial and sexual identities. A survey by the Center for American Progress revealed that 33% of Black LGBTQ individuals reported experiencing discrimination in the past year, affecting various aspects of their lives, including housing and healthcare access (americanprogress.org).

Mental health disparities are also prevalent. The Trevor Project found that 66% of Black LGBTQ youth reported experiencing depressed mood in the past year, with 35% seriously considering suicide (thetrevorproject.org). Additionally, Black LGBTQ youth often face racism within LGBTQ spaces and homophobia or transphobia within Black communities, leading to a sense of isolation and reluctance to seek necessary services (19thnews.org).

The Importance of Inclusive Activism

Inclusive activism that acknowledges and addresses the intersectionality of race and queerness is essential. Embracing intersectionality empowers the LGBTQIA+ movement to amplify the voices and experiences of marginalized individuals within the community. It ensures that the concerns, perspectives, and unique challenges faced by all members are acknowledged, respected, and addressed.

By advocating for inclusive policies and representation, queer activism seeks to uplift voices that are often marginalized within both racial and sexual identity discourses. Organizations like the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) are dedicated to empowering Black LGBTQIA+ individuals through advocacy and policy work. David J. Johns, the executive director of NBJC, emphasizes the importance of equity over equality, tailoring support to individual needs (time.com).

Black-Led LGBTQIA+ Organizations Making a Difference

If we want to foster meaningful change, we must support the organizations that are already doing this vital work. Here are some Black-led or Black-focused LGBTQIA+ organizations that deserve recognition and support:

Austin-Based Organizations

  • allgo – A Texas-based organization that uplifts queer people of color through cultural arts, wellness programs, and social justice initiatives.

  • Black Trans Leadership of Austin (BTLA) – A community-led organization focusing on advocacy, leadership development, and direct support for Black trans individuals in Central Texas.

National Organizations

  • The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) – A civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black LGBTQIA+ individuals through policy work, education, and community organizing.

  • The Marsha P. Johnson Institute – Named after the legendary activist, this organization protects and defends the rights of Black trans people through advocacy, arts, and direct support.

How You Can Support Black LGBTQIA+ Youth

Advocacy is an ongoing commitment, and there are many ways to show up for Black LGBTQIA+ youth during Black History Month and beyond:

  • Donate to Black-led LGBTQIA+ organizations that provide life-saving resources and services.

  • Amplify Black LGBTQIA+ voices by sharing their stories, books, and media.

  • Educate yourself and others about the unique challenges Black queer youth face and how to be a better ally.

  • Create inclusive spaces in schools, workplaces, and communities that acknowledge and celebrate intersectional identities.

Moving Forward Together

At Out Youth, we are committed to ensuring that Black LGBTQIA+ youth have the resources, representation, and support they need to thrive. This Black History Month, we encourage you to reflect on how you can be part of the movement for a more just and inclusive future. By standing in solidarity with Black queer communities, we honor the past while building a brighter tomorrow.

Let’s celebrate Black history and queer futures—together.