In a world that is quick to discriminate, there are many challenges faced by minority groups. Those challenges are magnified when you belong to two or more of those groups. Queer people of color can face racist and queer-phobic slurs that can take a toll physically and mentally.
In the 21st Century, our world is becoming more inclusive and inviting to minority groups. As our understanding of gender and sexuality expands, more people are able to express their full selves. But this doesn’t mean the work is done. Queer POC face some of the harshest realities in our world today. If more people knew what queer POC went through, we could encourage more conversations about this demographic’s experiences. With a clear understanding of these experiences, those who are queer and POC can suffer fewer mental health challenges.
Here are the challenges that those who are POC and queer face.
Multiple Minority as a Queer POC
It is one thing when people make you feel inferior because you are queer or POC. People who fit in these categories are subject to homophobia, biphobia, racism, and transphobia. With so much judgment aimed at both communities, you are less likely to come out to families, have low self-esteem, and experience depression. Being in both communities can give you more reasons for people to use their prejudice against you.
The Need for Tough Skin
Every day feels like a battle for those who are queer and POC. It feels like a fight for survival if you are in school and get bullied constantly. Even if you do not come out, other kids still use racial and queer-phobic slurs to victimize you. Being a multiple minority can also continue through adulthood, like in the workplace. If your co-workers discriminate against you, it’s easy to become isolated and discouraged.
An Identity Outside of Demographics
With the scrutiny that comes from the demographics of POC and queer, it can be hard to establish a personal life outside of that. Constant harm and grabbing people’s attention for being POC and queer can make it challenging to enjoy yourself with hobbies or your friends. All you want is to have a typical life like the ones who live outside of these demographics. You just wish to be accepted like everyone else without every day feeling like a struggle. No one should be punished for being themselves.
Creating a Different Future for QTPOC
Progress is happening, but it is slow. The burden of change lies with the aggressor, not the victim; however, sometimes, the motivation is lacking. If you feel you can stand up for yourself in the face of microaggression, some people are ignorant of how harmful their words are. In a perfect world, you say the words you want to say, and they are received and accepted with grace. But we are rarely ever that lucky.
For personal safety and peace of mind, finding allies can help shift the tide. There is strength in numbers, and the more people advocating for queer people of color, the better. Ask your friends to back you up and advocate for you. Maybe you can even role-play potential scenarios so you are both prepared to respond and speak up the next time someone is offensive.
It is true that the world is not going to change in an instant. But, finding the courage to have more conversations with those around you will provide a new perspective away from ignorance. Always know you are not alone. Help is all around you if you are experiencing mental health issues as a result of homophobia and/or racism. Schedule your first appointment today and request a consultation below.
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