Discussion of “The Black Community and Its LGBT Members” Papers

Abstract

The author discusses the paper by Ashley (2012), a review of the recent literature on sexual orientation, noting the lack of studies in ethnic minority populations on this topic. There is a discussion of the paper by Dudley (2012), which provides insights into black LGBT culture from the perspective of the history of the black LGBT community in New York City. Hill's paper (2012) questioning whether there is more homophobia in the black community is discussed and insights are provided. The paper by Gibbs and Jones (2012) on the role of behavioral scientists working with the LGBT members of the black community is reviewed. The author links these papers with the themes of stigma and homophobia, the intersection of multiple identities, and health and healthcare disparities. There is also a discussion focusing attention on youth as one of the most vulnerable populations.

KEYWORDS:

• sexual orientation
• homophobia
• gay
• lesbian
• black community
• behavioral scientist
• black church
• LGBT youth
• homelessness
• health disparities
• healthcare disparities
• multiple identities