LGBTQ Intersectionality and Identity

Summary

In this conversation on 'Comcast Newsmakers,' Kierra Johnson, Executive Director of the National LGBTQ Task Force, discusses the ongoing fight for LGBTQ rights and protections. Despite advances like marriage equality, LGBTQ individuals still face discrimination in areas like housing and employment. Johnson highlights the importance of intersectionality and full civil rights for all people. She also discusses the growth of the LGBTQ population, as reflected in a 2021 Gallup poll, and introduces the task force's public education campaign, 'All of Me. All the Time,' aimed at addressing the needs of LGBTQ individuals in various areas of life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gallup poll results show that the LGBT population in the U.S. is growing as more people identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.
• 😀 Despite progress, advocates continue to push for increased nondiscrimination protections for the LGBTQ community.
• 😀 It is still possible to legally marry but face discrimination, such as being fired or evicted, for being part of the LGBTQ community.
• 😀 Marriage equality was a significant milestone, but the fight for true civil rights and equality continues for LGBTQ people.
• 😀 The rise in the number of people identifying as LGBTQ signals more people becoming engaged in advocating for equal rights and protections.
• 😀 The distinction between 'equity' and 'equality' is significant, especially for LGBTQ individuals who experience unique, intersectional challenges.
• 😀 Intersectionality is essential to understanding the needs of LGBTQ people, who live multiple identities simultaneously (e.g., gender, race, sexuality).
• 😀 The Gallup poll revealed that more LGBTQ young people are coming out and entering the workforce, creating new challenges that require unique solutions.
• 😀 The National LGBTQ Task Force is focused on creating protections for LGBTQ workers, parents, and individuals who need civil-rights protections.
• 😀 The task force's public-education campaign, 'All of Me. All the Time.', aims to ensure that all individuals' identities are supported in all aspects of life and society.
• 😀 The National LGBTQ Task Force advocates for federal protections and encourages individuals to get involved in the fight for equality and justice for all LGBTQ people.

Q & A

What does the recent Gallup poll reveal about the LGBT population in the U.S.?

The Gallup poll reveals that the LGBT population is growing, with more Americans self-identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.

Why is there still a disconnect between marriage equality and employment protections for the LGBTQ community?

Although marriage equality has been achieved, there are still gaps in protection laws, meaning LGBTQ individuals can legally marry but may still face discrimination such as being fired or evicted for their sexual orientation or gender identity.

What is Kierra Johnson's perspective on the importance of the Gallup poll's findings?

Kierra Johnson sees the Gallup poll as an exciting development, showing that more people are coming out as LGBTQ, which will lead to increased activism, better engagement with elected officials, and stronger advocacy for improved rights and protections.

What is the difference between equity and equality in the context of LGBTQ rights?

Equity involves addressing the unique needs of individuals based on their identities and circumstances, while equality refers to treating everyone the same. For the LGBTQ community, equity requires solutions that account for the intersectionality of their identities, such as being a woman, Black, queer, and a parent all at once.

How does intersectionality affect the LGBTQ community's approach to civil rights?

Intersectionality means that the LGBTQ community experiences multiple layers of identity, such as race, gender, and sexual orientation, that must be addressed simultaneously to ensure comprehensive civil rights protections and solutions tailored to the full experience of individuals.

What challenges do LGBTQ individuals still face, despite growing visibility?

Despite more LGBTQ people being visible in the media and public life, challenges persist such as discrimination in the workplace, healthcare, and other areas, and the need for full civil rights protections remains critical.

What is the 'All of Me. All the Time.' campaign, and what does it aim to accomplish?

'All of Me. All the Time.' is a public education campaign by the National LGBTQ Task Force aimed at ensuring that the needs of LGBTQ individuals are met across all areas of life, from healthcare to immigration and police reform, emphasizing the importance of addressing their unique identities and ensuring they can thrive.

How does the National LGBTQ Task Force engage with the broader community in its efforts?

The Task Force engages with various struggles such as immigrant rights, police reform, and healthcare to ensure that the needs of LGBTQ individuals are met, fostering broader social change and full inclusion in society.

What role does the Task Force see for LGBTQ individuals in the political process?

The Task Force believes that LGBTQ individuals should be able to participate fully in the political process, making decisions that improve their quality of life and secure better protections and rights for themselves and their families.

Where can individuals learn more about the National LGBTQ Task Force and get involved?

Individuals can visit the National LGBTQ Task Force's website at thetaskforce.org to learn more about their work, engage with their campaigns, and join the fight for federal protections and LGBTQ rights.