I attended a historically black college here in Greensboro for nursing school. There is a real problem with homesexuality on these campuses. I talked with some of my friends at this school and they told me stories about how taboo being gay is in the African American community. I have African American gay and lesbian friends that also tell me how shunned many gay people are in these families.I have seen first hand that my black gay friends have a more difficult time with their families than my white friends. HIV is much higher in these universities because many black gay men hide their homesexuality. There was a book that came out called "On the Down Low" about black gay men that have girlfriends but also have boyfriends on the side, they then transmit HIV to these women. For gay men at these schools it is not just taboo to be gay but also very dangerous. Before attending this school I had no idea that this was such a problem in the black community. This is a large school that tried to get a LGBT clubs but they were met with such opposition from other kids on campus. I have even heard a story on NPR on this very subject.
I am not black so I can only tell you what my experience has been and what friends have told me. I think soulforce coming to these schools is much needed and a great idea!
Christine
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