Is the Black Community More Homophobic?: Reflections on the Intersectionality of Race, Class, Gender, Culture and Religiosity of the Perception of Homophobia in the Black Community

Abstract

This article examines the perception of homophobia in the black community. The author offers a context for answering this question that briefly explores the parameters for understanding the black community and the experience of black gays and lesbians within this context. No mention of homophobia as it relates to black people would be complete without addressing the impact of racism, sexism, class, and religious practices within the black community. The author gives a rationale for the prevailing assumption that gay and lesbian intolerance is higher among black people and explores at what cost and to what benefit. Recommendations are given for building a stronger and more cohesive black community.

KEYWORDS:

• gay
• lesbian
• homophobia
• black community
• ethnic minority
• sexism
• racism