Empowering Black Queer through Travel
Pride Month is a time to honor the history, celebrate progress, and advocate for the rights of LGBTQ2+ communities—both for those who are out and those not yet able to be. Despite growing cultural acceptance, BIPOC LGBTQ2+ individuals, especially Black and transgender people, continue to face severe discrimination, including abuse and violence, often with tragic consequences.
In this episode, Amy is joined by Ami King, a Black, queer, and transgender world traveler who has found joy and community through his global experiences. Together, they explore the complexities of being Black and transgender in today’s world, highlighting both the challenges the community still faces and the moments of progress worth celebrating.
Ami King:
Raising awareness around Black Queer Liberation, spirituality & expat/ travel life
Key Episode Takeaways
Travel is not traditionally emphasized in Black and BIPOC communities. While hard work and financial support are prioritized, there’s a growing recognition of the value of travel despite cultural hurdles.
Trusting your intuition over fear can lead to transformative experiences. This is especially important when making travel decisions during challenging times like the pandemic.
Combating travel-related anxiety involves practical strategies. Identify specific fears, create safety nets (like emergency funds), and prepare thoroughly to ease concerns.
Black queer and transgender travelers face unique challenges. Issues like unwelcoming TSA procedures highlight the need to research safe travel destinations.
Authenticity in content creation fosters deeper connections. By focusing on the experiences of Black and queer travelers, creators can move away from trying to appeal to everyone.
Travel can challenge internalized societal standards. This promotes self-acceptance and a broader understanding of personal worth beyond mere productivity.
Anti-trans legislation has real-world consequences. It leads to violence, particularly against Black trans women, highlighting the existential risks marginalized communities face.
The Supreme Court's abortion ruling impacts all individuals with uteruses. This includes trans men and non-binary people, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue.
Supporting marginalized communities requires actionable steps. This includes mutual aid, direct donations, and checking in on friends to foster understanding of intersectional struggles.
Empowering empathy through recognition of diverse identities is crucial. Understanding the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities creates a more inclusive environment for all.
Inspiring Quotes from Guests
“Traveling has given me the opportunity to see myself in more light and to digress from seeing my worth connected to my productivity.”
“Real change comes from centering the most marginalized in any pursuits we’re going through.”
- Ami King
Watch The Episode
Reflective Questions
Acknowledge the unique travel challenges faced by Black and transgender individuals:
How aware are you of the unique challenges faced by Black queer and transgender travelers? Have you considered how this affects your own travel planning and destination choices? (Allies)Evaluate your contribution to marginalized communities:
What actionable steps have you taken to support marginalized communities, and how can you be more intentional in fostering empathy and understanding of their unique challenges? (Allies)Embrace your authenticity while traveling:
How do you stay true to your identity and embrace your authenticity when traveling, especially in environments that may not feel entirely safe or welcoming? What strategies do you use to protect your well-being while still exploring the world? (LGBTQ2+ travellers)
Address your travel-related anxieties:
What specific fears do you have about travel, and how can you create safety nets or strategies to overcome them? (LGBTQ2+ travellers)
Challenge travel service inclusivity:
How can you make more inclusive travel choices, such as supporting hotels, airlines, and tour companies that have demonstrated a commitment to welcoming Black trans and LGBTQ2+ travelers? What specific actions can you take to encourage inclusive practices within the travel industry? (Allies)
Support the Community
Join the Brown Sugar Talk Challenge! Make a difference today by participating in the Brown Sugar Talk Challenge! We invite you to donate just $5 to support the community and challenge five friends to do the same. Together, we can create a ripple effect of support that truly makes an impact.
Black Trans Fund is a New York City-based national fund dedicated to uplifting the Black trans community. Their mission is to change the narrative around Black trans lives, emphasizing joy and resilience instead of struggle and hardship.
