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Slideshow

Everyone Thinks We Look Alike: Seeking Recognition in LGBTQ-Parented Stepfamilies

Dr. Acosta
Dr. Katie L. Acosta, PhD
Sociology
Georgia State University
MLC 213
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SPONSORED BY THE SOCIOLOGY COLLOQUIUM COMMITTEE AND INSTITUTE OF AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES

In this talk, Dr. Acosta explores the strategies that mixed-race (and racially minoritized) stepfamilies led by lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer parents use to make themselves intelligible as family to others. Based on interview data with parents from more than 40 families before and after the SCOTUS Obergefell ruling, Dr. Acosta highlights how these families’ strategies vary not only based on their racial composition, but also on the legal landscape for LGBTQ families in their states of residence. Further, Dr. Acosta explores parents’ different levels of commitment to racial/cultural literacy with their families. Some are intentional about raising children who are conscious and proud of their racial differences. Others are most comfortable ignoring race in their homes. Nonetheless, Dr. Acosta finds that race shapes the opportunities available to the respondents’ families in subtle and sometimes immeasurable ways.

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