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Sexuality Research and Social Policy

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08-06-2022

Sexual Identities and Reactions to Black Lives Matter

Authors: Eric Swank, Breanne Fahs

Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy | Issue 4/2022

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Abstract

Introduction

This study traced sexuality differences in Black Lives Matter (BLM) approval before using theories of “political distinctiveness” to explain why sexuality differences occurred.

Methods

A random sample of 3489 US adults completed the 2016 wave of the American National Election Survey (ANES) Time Series project. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regressions assessed differences in BLM support by reported sexual identity when adjusting for possibly relevant covariates.

Results

Lesbians, gays, and bisexuals (LGB) backed BLM more than heterosexuals. Increased LGB support of BLM was driven by sexuality differences in racial backgrounds, marital statuses, perceptions of police biases, approval of Black empowerment, authoritarianism, and emotional bonds to people of color.

Conclusions

Sexual identities shape reactions to antiracist social movements. LGB alignment with BLM is partly due to sexual discrepancies in demographic qualities, group memberships, and the way sexual identities alter an awareness of social biases.

Policy Implications

Greater LGB liberalism, plus the queer friendly nature of BLM, offers greater prospects in the creation and maintenance of intersectional social justice movements that seek to improve the lives of racial and sexual minorities.

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Title: Sexual Identities and Reactions to Black Lives Matter
Authors: Eric Swank
Breanne Fahs
Publication date: 08-06-2022
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy / Issue 4/2022
Print ISSN: 1868-9884
Electronic ISSN: 1553-6610
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-022-00735-6

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Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Policy Implications

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