By   Sat, Feb 27, 2010

Some would think that the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered community would be free from racism, considering that it is a community that experiences discrimination on a daily basis. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Like other cultures, racism continues to be an issue that affects everyone, including homosexuals. The sense of comfort that one senses when they are with those of the same culture is indescribable. In fact, it is quite similar to the feeling and gratification a lesbian or gay male may feel when others who share the same sexual orientation surround them. A sense of belonging, acceptance, and the ability to identify similar life experiences is a wonderful feeling; however, these feelings are the same feelings and way of thinking that contribute to racism and other forms of discrimination. 

Not only is racial discrimination prominent amongst individuals within our community; it has been visible in LGBT community organizations as well. In Michigan, Affirmations, a well-known LGBT community center in the city of Ferndale, has been accused of racial discrimination on numerous occasions (www.PrideSource.com, Feb. 22, 2010 issue). In October 2006, the firing of a Community Outreach Coordinator and the subsequent resignation of a Community Engagement Coordinator sparked the accusations, which were followed by several protests. And more recently, in November 2009, their Director of Communications and Development filed a complaint of racial discrimination against the center with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. 

After the incident in 2006, Affirmations created the Multicultural Advisory Committee, which aims to increase diversity and combat racism at the center. “Racism will always be an issue to be examined – not just at the center, but in the general community” stated Leslie Thompson, Affirmations’ Chief Executive Officer. In order for racism and any forms of discrimination to be fully addressed, they must be examined within the general community, on an individual level. As members of the community, we must take the initiative to welcome diversity and accept people from all cultural environments. 

DON’T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS

Although some may not admit it, many make assumptions about other people based on a stereotype or their own personal experience with a single person of a particular culture. If we’re to make a collective effort, it is imperative that we do not make assumptions. One bad apple should not spoil the bunch. Considering that our country is known as one big melting pot, we must take into consideration that there are many factors that contribute to a person’s culture, not just race alone.  

BEFRIEND SOMEONE OF A DIFFERENT CULTURE

By not making assumptions, we’re now opening ourselves up to expand our network and relationships by befriending someone of a different culture. This shows that you’re secure within yourself and that you’re open-minded to others’ differences. I’ve also found it to be quite respectful and considerate of others to ask questions regarding one’s culture rather than to make assumptions. Of course, being a friend makes this task a lot easier than not. 

REACH OUTSIDE OF YOUR OWN COMMUNITY

If you’re a member of a particular LGBT group, be willing to expose yourself and make an effort to diversify your connections by joining other human rights groups that you’d never thought of joining. Sometimes, it is easier to experience diversity in a group rather than individually. 

The goal of these steps is to broaden your knowledge and educate yourself about those who are different from you. The more time you spend with others outside of your own community, the more accepting you are to others, and others will be more accepting and welcoming of you. Making these changes individually will not be easy. But, with a collective effort, we will be able to create a more loving and welcoming environment and society that sees the value and contribution we all make to the LGBT community.