Unraveling the Threads: Race, Gender and Sexuality & Homelessness
Understanding the complexities of homelessness requires an exploration of the interconnected threads that shape the fabric of our lives. Social determinants of health, as defined by the American Medical Association, encompass the community-wide conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. Among these determinants, race, gender, and sexuality play pivotal roles in shaping housing outcomes.
African Americans and Indigenous people are disproportionately affected by homelessness, a consequence of historical and structural racism deeply embedded within societal systems. Despite comprising a smaller percentage of the general population, African Americans represent a significant majority of those experiencing homelessness, particularly among families with children. Similarly, the LGBTQ+ community faces heightened risks of homelessness, with studies indicating that LGBTQ+ adults are twice as likely as the general population to experience homelessness in their lifetime. Transgender individuals are especially vulnerable, with 8% experiencing homelessness within a single year. Moreover, LGBTQ+ youth often find themselves without stable housing after coming out to their families, contributing to the overrepresentation of LGBTQ+ individuals within the homeless population.
In honor of Pride Month and Juneteenth, this month’s blog will focus on the interplay between race, gender, sexuality, and housing instability. Read on to learn more:
Race and Homelessness
Recent research has highlighted the link between race and homelessness in the United States. A comprehensive data analysis conducted over an 11-year period from 2007 to 2017, as outlined in the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Disparities, reveals concerning trends: Black, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander individuals and families consistently faced a higher likelihood of experiencing homelessness compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts. These findings underscore the persistent and escalating nature of racial disparities in homelessness, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions to address systemic inequities.
Similarly, insights from "Homelessness Is a Housing and Racism Problem" by Bill Pitkin underscore the intricate relationship between housing market dynamics, structural racism, and homelessness. Despite popular misconceptions attributing homelessness to individual vulnerabilities such as addiction and mental health issues, research instead indicates that housing market challenges - exacerbated by historical legacies of racism - play a pivotal role in driving homelessness rates. While racial composition alone does not entirely explain regional disparities in homelessness levels, structural racism deeply embedded within housing and social welfare systems perpetuates racial inequalities, amplifying the risk of housing insecurity among communities of color.
As efforts to combat homelessness continue to evolve, a multifaceted approach that not only addresses immediate housing needs but also confronts the root causes of racial disparities is required to bring the vision of housing justice grounded in equity and inclusivity to reality.
Gender, Sexuality and Homelessness
Furthermore, understanding the connection between gender, sexuality, and homelessness sheds light on the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly youth, who are disproportionately represented among the homeless population. Discrimination, harassment, and a lack of support services contribute to their vulnerability, often leading to rejection by families and subsequent homelessness.
Studies reveal alarming statistics: up to 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQIA+, and they are 120% more likely to experience homelessness than their non-LGBTQIA+ peers. These youth often face abuse and unsafe conditions in shelters, driving many to avoid them altogether. Discharge from foster care is a significant contributor to LGBTQIA+ youth homelessness, with studies showing high rates of homelessness post-discharge. Moreover, LGBTQIA+ homeless youth are more likely to engage in survival sex and face higher risks of victimization, mental health issues, and suicide attempts compared to their heterosexual peers.
Recognizing these challenges, efforts to support LGBTQIA+ individuals experiencing homelessness include LGBTQIA+ cultural sensitivity training for service providers, LGBTQIA+ inclusive shelters, and initiatives for LGBTQIA+ specific housing. The commitment to addressing the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals facing homelessness extends beyond Pride Month, reflecting the need for a year-round commitment to cultural sensitivity and support.
Understanding the complex relationship between race, gender, sexuality, and homelessness underscores the need for action. As we mark Pride Month and Juneteenth, let’s move beyond reflection and take steps towards equity and justice by supporting policies that tackle systemic inequalities, backing initiatives offering culturally sensitive support, and elevating the voices of those most impacted. Together we can ensure everyone has a stable, safe place to call home.
Further Reading & Resources