LGBTQ INTERVIEW

Recently, I interviewed a student at my hbcu about their experiences as a Black LGBTQ person.   The student mentioned that it can be both empowering and difficult to navigate these identities.   They highlighted the significance of having a supportive community at the HBCU, mentioning a strong bond among students who have similar backgrounds. She made it clear on  how attending an HBCU has helped them embrace who they are.  She explained, despite moments of acceptance, there are still misunderstandings and stereotypes from both the Black and LGBTQ communities. She noted that some individuals still hold onto old-fashioned beliefs about gender and sexuality, leading to conflicts. 

 However, they also pointed out how great it is to find friends and make connections with fellow students who understand the different aspects of their identities.   They talked about finding LGBTQ  groups at school, which have given them a comfortable place to be themselves and push for acceptance.  The student felt confident in educating others and questioning assumptions about being both Black and LGBTQ. In general, the interview showed that even though there are challenges, feeling connected and getting support from other students at the HBCU is very important for them.   They ended by saying that accepting both sides of who they are has made them more powerful and able to bounce back from difficulties, and they want to motivate others to do the same.