When it comes to racism and discrimination, I often feel it's a double whammy being gay and African-American or gay and any ethnicity or just simply gay. There are many levels of racism and discrimination that are still present today and many of us experience it often. From time to time I hear people claim that racism no longer exists, but I beg to differ. I was called the "N" word for the first time when I was 12. I was called a fag for the first time when I was 15. I was called both the "N" word and a fag at the same time when I was 20. Dealing with racism is one thing, but dealing with racism coupled with discrimination is another.

Some instances of racism aren't as blatant as in the past, but subtle innuendos are still present (Just the other day while checking into a $300 a night hotel, instead of directing me toward the front desk, the bellman told me they only accepted applications at the service entrance). Levels of racism can come from individuals in other communities or surprisingly from within the same community.

So, what about racism within the gay community? Can such a thing exist when gay people themselves are often victims of some form of hate? Are there levels of racism that are justified or acceptable? Are people too sensitive about racism or not sensitive enough? Can a gay person be homophobic? Will we ever live in a society without some form of racism or discrimination? Share your comments below or join the discussion.

Suggested Reading:

• How To Fight Racism in the LGBT Community
• Can’t We All Just Get Along?
• Racism vs. Homophobia
• About Race Relations

_{Photo courtesy of Len Nguyen.}