#blacklgbtqlivesmatter: The Intersectionality of Black and LGBTQ+ Rights Movements on Twitter in Honor of Dominique “Rem’mie” Fells, Riah Milton, Egypt Powers, Brayla Stone, and Merci Mack

Abstract

ABSTRACT Both Black Lives Matter (BLM) and LGBTQ+ rights movements have a history of fighting for social justice. Often, these movements are two separate movements that do not provide inclusivity for those that hold Black and queer identities. This study examined Twitter users’ perceptions of the rights of individuals with intersecting identities during the BLM and LGBTQ+ rights movements through the qualitative method of thematic analysis. Researchers reviewed publicly available data to answer the question: What were Twitter users’ perceptions of the rights and treatment of individuals with intersecting identities during the Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ+ rights movements during June of 2020? The sample included 397 tweets identified through the hashtags “blackLGBTQ,” “blacktranslivesmatter,” and “blackLGBTQlivesmatter.” The results showed 495 codes with three themes of fellowship, motivation for justice, and pursual of justice with seven sub-themes. Results demonstrated the imperative need to address intersectionality in both research and clinical arenas. Data from these Twitter users seemed to reflect a desire to advocate for Black and LGBTQ+ rights and displayed wishes to acknowledge, affirm, and celebrate individuals’ intersecting identities. This also included the importance of individuals gaining greater understanding and advocacy to support these communities.