Erasure and Resilience: The Experiences of LGBTQ Students of Color

Latinx LGBTQ Youth in United States Schools

This report is a report on LGBTQ students of color that examines the school experiences of Latinx LGBTQ youth.

Experiences of racism, homophobia, and transphobia in U.S. schools are prevalent among LGBTQ youth of color. Prior research on LGBTQ youth of color, in general, has shown that schools nationwide are hostile environments for LGBTQ youth of color, where they experience victimization and discrimination based on race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or all of the above simultaneously. In addition, many LGBTQ youths do not have access to in-school resources that may improve school climate and students’ experiences, such as student clubs and supportive educators. Because LGBTQ students of color are not a monolithic population, this report focuses solely on the school experiences of Latinx LGBTQ youth, examining indicators of negative school climate, as well as supports and resources.

This report was developed by the GLSEN Research Institute, in partnership with Hispanic Federation and UnidosUS, and examines:

• Feelings of safety at school due to personal characteristics
• Experiences of racist and anti-LGBTQ harassment and assault from peers
• Effects of a hostile school climate on educational well-being and psychological well-being
• Reporting harassment and assault to school staff and family members, and these adults’ responses
• Experiences with school disciplinary action
• School resources and supports, including student clubs, supportive educators, and inclusive curriculum