Intersectionality of race, gender, sexuality and class: Black gay and lesbian business owners in the U.S.A

This research explores the intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and class of Black LGBT entrepreneurs, a previously unstudied population. Empirically, the central research questions: do lack gay and lesbian business owners' experiences challenge Jane Ward's concept of "diversity politics" and if so, how? were approached through semi-structured one-on-one interviews with six gay male and six lesbian business owners. Findings included experiences of "queer sexism," classism, and homophobia, as well as empowerment. Most business owners embraced homonormative values of sexual identity disclosure; though a small number of participants resisted the closet dichotomy. In general, diversity efforts by companies and specifically racial and ethnic inclusion policies by LGBT organizations like the NGLCC were supported by participants. However, all women interviewed were alternatively active in intimate, informal groups of fellow lesbian business owners. Findings from this study can inform further research on intersections of sexuality and race and apply to LGBT organizational programming.