Report

Erasure and Resilience: The Experiences of LGBTQ Students of Color: Black LGBTQ Youth in U.S. Schools

Nhan L. Truong, Adrian D. Zongrone, and Joseph G. Kosciw
December 2020 | Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network and the National Black Justice Coalition

This research report by the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is one of four reports on LGBTQ students of color. This particular report specifically examines Black LGBTQ youths’ experiences related to school climates, as well as supports and resources. LGBTQ and Black youth often experience higher rates of victimization and discrimination at school, yet research exploring the intersectionality of these identities is limited. This report examines indicators of negative school climate and their impact on Black LGBTQ students’ academic achievement, educational aspirations, and psychological well-being. Additionally, this report examines whether these experiences are reported and what supportive resources students have access to in school. It also explores the availability and utility of four supportive resources for students. From this report, administrators, policymakers, and teachers can seek to understand the nuanced and multifaceted experiences of Black LGBTQ students and ways to support them.