Ariel Chatman
Pronouns: she/they
Research Mentor(s): A. Nzere Kwabena
Research Mentor School/College/Department: LGBT Detroit / NonUM
Program:
Authors: Ariel Chatman , Kai Saale, A. Nzere Kwabena, Christopher Sutton
Session: Session 2: 10:00 am – 10:50 am
Poster: 98
Abstract
Honoring the significant impacts of queer individuals becomes a necessity, under the current rise in unjustified speech, laws, and deaths among the LGBTQ+ community. LGBT Detroit, an organization dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ+ culture, education, and human rights, works to fill a practical gap in research on community support systems for marginalized groups. LGBT Detroit was founded on the intersections of what it means to be Black/Brown and a part of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2024, to honor their thirty year legacy, the organization has curated the LD at 30 campaign; which includes community-centered events and thirty, “In 30 second” interviews, aiming to acknowledge members’ diverse values of how their community has saved them. Further utilizing a qualitative approach, we also conducted a series of in-depth interviews with active community members across three generations; who have been impacted by LGBT Detroit. These interviews provide rich, nuanced insights into the organization’s influence on individuals’ lives, experiences, and sense of belonging within the Black queer community. Through the analysis of interview data, the qualitative results show LGBT Detroit serves as a vital pillar in the community, providing a safe space and support network for individuals navigating the complex intersection of race, sexuality, and gender. In looking as to what the next thirty years may entail, LGBT Detroit further aims to expand and improve the significant contributions of its many programs, such as HIV/AIDS campaigns, and support groups in addressing systemic issues and social change within the Black queer community. Ultimately, the findings of this research significantly stresses the importance of community-designed systems for marginalized groups, particularly the intersection of one’s identity. The research not only highlights the impact of LGBT Detroit, but also emphasizes the broader significance of community-based initiatives in promoting social justice, advocacy, and human rights for all.
