Ruth L. Hall

Not Any One Thing

Abstract The complex legacy of social class on African American lesbians in relationships was examined using a case study approach. Six highly educated, middle class African American lesbians in their mid-thirties to mid-fifties were interviewed in this exploratory study. Differences in social class were perceived as the reason for the conflict in these relationships. Conversely, similarities in social class were described as making relationships operate more smoothly. Although similarities in race can generate shared cultural values, it is the meaning given to a couples perceived similarities and differences that influences the quality of the communication between partners. These preliminary findings highlight a previously unexplored contribution to the dynamics in African American lesbian relationships.

Special Article: Multiple Minority Group Oppression: Divided We Stand?

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) psychologists of color experience oppression from many sides. In addition to being negatively perceived by the majority society for being of different ethnicity, LGBT psychologists also experience oppression within their communities of color because of homophobia. In order to receive support from either community (people of color community of origin or European American gay, lesbian, bisexual, & transgendered community), multiple minority group members must deny important aspects of themselves, supported by one community and deemed as less important or unacceptable by the other. The double or triple oppression has a significant impact on their adjustment. This commentary focuses on the personal experiences and observations of LGBT psychologists of color as it relates to multiple oppression from the psychological community and society at large.