Intersectionality Matters: Inclusion Success Stories of Queer and Trans People of Color
At the intersection of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, and other aspects of identity lies the concept of intersectionality. This idea recognizes that people are complex and dynamic beings, and it honors the multiple aspects of identity that shape one’s experiences. In this blog, we’ll explore various success stories of queer and trans people of color that demonstrate the importance of intersectionality in creating inclusive spaces. 🔍✨
What is Intersectionality?
Intersectionality is a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw that describes the ways in which different aspects of identity intersect and interact with one another. For instance, a Black queer woman may experience both anti-Black racism and homophobia/transphobia, and these two forms of discrimination will likely shape her experiences in different ways. Intersectionality emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these multiple forms of oppression and how they intersect to create unique experiences. 👩🏽🦱🌈
The Importance of Centering QTPOC Voices
Queer and trans people of color (QTPOC) are often marginalized in both LGBTQ+ and racial justice spaces. Nonetheless, their voices are crucial to any discussion on intersectionality. QTPOC have unique experiences at the intersections of race, sexuality, and gender identity, and their perspectives bring a much-needed depth to any conversation about inclusion. By centering their voices, we can create more meaningful and effective solutions to the issues we face. 💬🙏🏽
Inclusion Success Stories
The Marsha P. Johnson Institute
The Marsha P. Johnson Institute (MPJI) was founded in 2015 by Elle Hearns, a Black trans woman. The organization is named after Marsha P. Johnson, a Black transgender woman and activist who was instrumental in the Stonewall uprising of 1969. The MPJI is committed to creating community-led, community-based solutions to the issues facing Black transgender people. It centers the voices of Black queer and trans people in its work, and its programs include advocacy, healing, and community building. The MPJI is a shining example of the power of centering QTPOC voices in organizational work. 🏥👩🏽💼🕊
The Trans Justice Funding Project
The Trans Justice Funding Project (TJFP) is a community-led funding initiative that supports grassroots organizations working to promote trans justice and community-led organizing. It is run entirely by trans people of color, and it is explicitly committed to supporting organizations led by and for trans people of color. The TJFP has been able to provide critical funding to organizations that might not otherwise have access to resources, and it demonstrates the power of centering the voices of those most impacted by issues. 💰👩🏾🤝👨🏽🌟
The Audre Lorde Project
The Audre Lorde Project (ALP) is a lesbian, gay, bisexual, two spirit, trans, and gender nonconforming people of color (LGBTSTGNC POC) community organizing center, focusing on the New York City area. The organization is named after Audre Lorde, a Black lesbian feminist poet and activist. The ALP is committed to cultural and community organizing that builds power for LGBTSTGNC POC. It centers the voices of those who are often left out of mainstream LGBTQ+ organizing and advocacy. The ALP is a testament to the importance of centering QTPOC voices in creating inclusive communities. 👥🌈💪🏽
Conclusion
Intersectionality is vital to creating inclusive spaces for all. By centering the voices of those who are often marginalized, we can create more meaningful and effective solutions to the issues we face. The success stories of organizations like the MPJI, TJFP, and ALP demonstrate the power of centering QTPOC voices in community organizing and advocacy. Let’s continue to uplift and center the voices of those most impacted by oppression. 🌟🌎❤️
