The Moment We Realized: Triple Consciousness and the Intersectionality of Race, Gender and Sexuality in 20th and 21st Century African American Women

Abstract

The Triple Consciousness Theory (TCT), inspired by W.E.B. Du Bois' Double Consciousness, argues that Black women view themselves through multiple lenses and not solely two (gender and race). Although it is unclear who first coined the term, Sara Lomax-Reese and Nahum Welang, inspired by DuBois, created articles based on the theory of Triple Consciousness by examining race, nationality and gender. My research will examine how gender, race and sexuality intersect and how the awareness of multiple consciousness changes the movements, strategies and perceptions of Black women in the United States. My work will also include the various perceptions of Black trans women and how they battle with multiple consciousness while dealing with the adversity placed among them by society. My project builds on the small amount of scholarship regarding trans women of color and the hardship they face concerning gender, sexuality and racial issues. This thesis examines specific topics including politics, sexuality, religion, economic issues, and societal expectations by showcasing the deep historical significance that Black women have in America, while also discerning the transformations caused by TCT. With this research I examine the political, social and economic strides of Black women and how we can see a pattern in successes despite adversity due to racial and gender inequality. Additionally, this research will emphasize the challenges that are faced during this process especially regarding trans women of color’s societal pressures and positions on equality. I examine the profoundly important impact that Black women have contributed to the building and development of America, also, while observing how TCT influenced these women.