Examining Intersectionality and Discrimination of LGBT People of Color

Using key findings from Lambda Legal’s National Health Care Survey Report, this workshop will review the unprecedented research on health care disparities and discrimination faced by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people and people with HIV. The intersectionality of racism and homophobia, transphobia and/or stigma based on HIV status can help explain why LGBT survey respondents of color and respondents of color living with HIV were more likely to experience discrimination and barriers to care than White respondents. LGBT people of color have unique experiences that may not be best addressed by policies and programs designed for LGBT people who are often and generally assumed to be White. Similiarly, programs designed for heterosexual people of color may not meet the needs of LGBT people of color. This workshop will highlight linkages between the LGBT, racial justice and health care reform movements. By taking intersectionality into account and analyzing responses from each movement, workshop participants will develop outreach and advocacy strategies that identify and address the specific needs of LGBT people of color and people of color with HIV.