Representation is important. Students seeing other individuals at the same intersections of identity in successful careers and positions of power can have a tremendous impact. Shared identities, successes, and struggles can be affirming, inspiring, and validating.
Black LGBTQ history-makers, past and present, are often underrepresented in school curriculum and popular culture. During #BlackHistoryMonth and all year long, we celebrate the incredible contributions of the African American community in U.S. History.
We surveyed Point Scholars about their favorite Black LGBTQ artists, activists, influencers, or anyone that has made an impact on the world and their communities. Here are four of the major changemakers LGBTQ college students say influence them:
- Point Flagship Scholar Dasia Moore, New York University.
- Point BIPOC Scholar Justin Parker, University of Connecticut.
- Point Community College Scholar Lerkeshia Littlejohn, Spartanburg Community College.
- Point BIPOC Scholar Niya McAdoo, University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Read up on more Black LGBTQ history via OutHistory.org.
Generations of racism and an education system born from discriminatory policies have made clear that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color face greater obstacles to educational achievement. When these challenges are combined with those faced by students who also identify as LGBTQ, the impediments can make a higher education degree seem impossible. Point aims to mitigate these issues by providing financial support, community resources, and professional development via our BIPOC Scholarship. Learn more about the Point BIPOC Scholarship.