Research Report

Erasure and Resilience: The Experiences of LGBTQ Students of Color

Black LGBTQ Youth in U.S. Schools

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The cover of the GLSEN Research Institute report Erasure and Resilience: The Experiences of LGBTQ Students of Color, Black LGBTQ Youth in U.S. Schools

Erasure and Resilience: The Experiences of LGBTQ Students of Color, Black LGBTQ Youth in U.S. Schools is one of a series of reports on LGBTQ students of color that examines the school experiences of Black LGBTQ youth. Other reports in this series examine the experiences of AAPI, Latinx, and Native and Indigenous LGBTQ youth.

Experiences of racism, homophobia, and transphobia in U.S. schools are prevalent among LGBTQ youth of color. Prior research on LGBTQ youth of color in general has shown that schools nationwide are hostile environments for LGBTQ youth of color, where they experience victimization and discrimination based on race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or all of the above simultaneously. In addition, many LGBTQ youth do not have access to in-school resources that may improve school climate and students’ experiences, such as student clubs and supportive educators. Because LGBTQ students of color are not a monolithic population, this report focuses solely on the school experiences of Black LGBTQ youth, examining indicators of negative school climate, as well as supports and resources.

This report was developed by the GLSEN Research Institute, in partnership with the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC), and examines:

  • Feelings of safety at school due to personal characteristics
  • Experiences of racist and anti-LGBTQ harassment and assault from peers
  • Effects of a hostile school climate on educational well-being and psychological well-being
  • Reporting harassment and assault to school staff and family members, and these adults' responses
  • Experiences with school disciplinary action
  • School resources and supports, including student clubs, supportive educators, and inclusive curriculum

Scroll down for more information about supporting Black LGBTQ students.

About Study Partner

The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is a civil rights organization dedicated to the empowerment of Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and same gender loving (LGBTQ/SGL) people, including people living with HIV/AIDS. NBJC’s mission is to end racism, homophobia, and LGBTQ/SGL bias and stigma. As America’s leading national Black LGBTQ/SGL civil rights organization focused on federal public policy, NBJC has accepted the charge to lead Black families in strengthening the bonds and bridging the gaps between the movements for racial justice and LGBTQ/SGL equality.