The Challenges Of Being A Queer POC and How To Deal With Them
While you already knew you’d face more challenges being a person of color, you also have to navigate being a queer POC.
With the way the world is set up, it can be more difficult for individuals who don’t perfectly fit into a cookie-cutter model that has been long established. We see this often in leaders of the world as well as leadership roles within companies. For anyone who doesn’t quite fit the cookie-cutter mold, unfortunately, it is hard to try to navigate a world that was not set up to be equal towards what society says is “okay.”
We’ve come a long way, but it often feels like we take five steps forward and ten steps back at times. Let’s learn more about some of the challenges that queer POCs may face and how we can deal with them.
The Challenges of Being a Queer POC
The world has come a long way, but the work isn’t done yet. There is still a lot of work to do. Especially when it comes to making sure that all groups feel a sense of support and belonging. No matter the color of their skin, their gender, how they choose to identify, or who they love. The truth of the matter is that marginalized groups face challenges that the mass majority of people don’t even have to worry about throughout their entire lifetime. These are just a few of the most common challenges that individuals who are queer people of color may face.
Discrimination
It can be a challenge in itself to feel discriminated against based on belonging or being part of one marginalized group. Unfortunately, when you identify or belong to two or more marginalized groups, the sense of discrimination can feel multiplied. Even in today’s world, there is still a lot of judgment and hate towards people who live their lives in a different way from the mass majority. Queer POCs being judged or discriminated against based on the color of their skin. They’re also being discriminated against based on who they love. Both of these are things that they cannot control, nor should they have to worry about.
Feeling of Isolation
People who are queer POCs have to defend themselves each and every day. As a child, they may have had to deal with bullying or harassment. Even in adulthood, they may deal with discrimination in their own workplace. With all of this negativity, it can be easy to remove yourself from the situation and isolate yourself from others. This can bring on a more negative outlook on the world, including their own life.
How to Deal with The Challenges
While navigating the world as a queer person of color doesn’t come easy, there are certain things you can do to help you cope.
Take Care of Yourself
First things first, it’s important to take care of yourself. Make sure you’re meeting your needs as a human. This means fueling your body with healthy and well-balanced meals during your day, prioritizing your sleep, finding time to move your body, and ensuring that your mental health remains in a good place.
Lean on Loved Ones
As shown, isolation can be an easy thing to turn to when you’re struggling with discrimination or bullying. Try not to do this as it can lead to worsening signs and symptoms. Instead, lean on your loved ones during this time. Let them know what you need from them so they can show up for you. You may just need a shoulder to cry on or someone to talk to. Don’t push away the people who are trying to support you.
Seek Additional Support
You’re not expected to navigate this time all on your own. Mental health providers are there to support you when you’re ready. Don’t delay in getting the help that you need and deserve. Reach out today to set up a consultation for LGBTQIA or BIPOC counseling.
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