The second article looks at the growing prominence of LGBTQIA leadership in American politics. Especially contrasting newly appointed California Senator Laphonza Butler, the only openly gay Black woman to currently serve in the United States Congress. Noting the significance of this position, the article acknowledges that for Black political leaders of the past, such as Bayard Rustin, Pauli Murray and Audre Lorde, being gay was a footnote not a main point of how they are documented. 

This shift from being shamed into a private queer life, to being a public facing gay figure in a matter of fifty years, shows the progression of the work Black women have done to fight for equal space in places of authority and influence. In chapter seven of Black Women’s Rights, Carole Boyce Davies explores the political life of Marielle Franco. A black Brazilian politician who faced discrimination and threats of violence for being queer, in spite of her incredible academic experience. This example highlights the global attitudes towards Black queer women and provides examples of how to succeed in the face of danger. 

What is interesting about these two pieces is the spheres of leadership in which queer women are occupying. As mentioned in my presentation, I believe that a look at the different types of leadership spaces would help contextualize the role that women play in organizations outside of political leadership. For example, religious spaces, academic spaces and leadership within the home. It is important for us as emerging scholars to create a framework for advancement that is inclusive of the leadership of women across platforms and genres.