WHITE GAY RACISM VS. BLACK HOMOPHOBIA part II
I received an intiguiging response from a close buddy on the gay racism vs. homophobia subject. His response provides insight that is perhaps more difficult to gain when individuals from either 'group' disusses these topics.
Here's a big thanks to my friend for contributing to this topic.
Also, bringing the white person's prospective here -- there is a big difference in the world perception between white and black gay folks. Whites usually don't need anyone else's recognition and sometime are really puzzled why black folks need one. This could be perceived by some in the black community as racism, but it is really not. The apparent self isolation of black community doesn't help either -- I witnessed a couple times in SF when black people who hang out with white guys were called "snow queens" etc. and otherwise harassed in the black gay community.
I wish there was more interaction between our communities so that we could develop better understanding, better ties and face our challenges together. But this is a task we all have to take ownership of.
For me it is beyond ridiculous when white gays hate black ones and vice versa, however in reality of things I still yet to meet any truly racist white gay folks here. Not that racism does not exist in our community though :-(
On the topic of being afraid of black church -- it is also about the difference in the world perception. Church plays much lesser role in the lives of white folks. Therefore the lesser is the psychological barrier of fighting it back.
White guys are also much more individualistic and independent both financially and emotionally. They depend much less on their family and community, so it is much easier for them to come out and have their own way. If someone else does not like -- them screw them... Way different for black folks where families and communities play much greater role.
Black gay people are therefore much more in need of establishing the positive environment and support network for their members. Building the community where everyone is welcomed and accepted is a way to go here.
For me it is beyond ridiculous when white gays hate black ones and vice versa, however in reality of things I still yet to meet any truly racist white gay folks here. Not that racism does not exist in our community though :-(
On the topic of being afraid of black church -- it is also about the difference in the world perception. Church plays much lesser role in the lives of white folks. Therefore the lesser is the psychological barrier of fighting it back.
White guys are also much more individualistic and independent both financially and emotionally. They depend much less on their family and community, so it is much easier for them to come out and have their own way. If someone else does not like -- them screw them... Way different for black folks where families and communities play much greater role.
Black gay people are therefore much more in need of establishing the positive environment and support network for their members. Building the community where everyone is welcomed and accepted is a way to go here.
1 Comments:
In my gay black experience, black homophobia has been marginal and not especially painful when encountered. Various forms of racism from the larger GLBT however have been frequently experienced by me 1) Not getting waited on at clubs/bars. 2) Being rejected because of my race for dating, sex, friendship, etc. 3) Rarely seeing men that look like me shown or talked about in Gay media.
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