African American lesbian and bisexual women

This article explores the convergence of racism, sexism, and heterosexism i n the lives of African American women, particularly lesbian and bisexual wo men, and its effects on the development of their sexuality and sexual ident ity. Specifics of this discussion focus on African American women, however, the struggles reflected in their development of a personal identity exempl ify the kinds of struggles that most women of color encounter. These strugg les are reflected in the need to negotiate a dominant culture that devalues women, people of color, and lesbians; the need to master and integrate the cultural derivatives of one's own ethnic group; the need to manage relatio nships with family, community, and partners; and the need to form a consoli dated personal identity.