Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Big Brothas Network. Our goal is to embrace our differences, inspire self-love, and increase camaraderie through education and positive, brotherly interactions. We intend to accomplish these goals through our annual event, The Official Big Boy Pride,  BBN magazine, local and national events, and networking forums.

 

The LGBT Community faces several unique challenges because of their sexual orientation. Multiple studies have demonstrated that the following emotional/social issues are common among members of the LGBT community:

• High HIV/AIDS/STD rates

• Higher rates of depression

• Higher suicide rates

• Greater exposure to discrimination and violence

• Greater rates of homelessness/physical abuse in LGBT teens

• High rates of drug/alcohol abuse

 

Larger men of color in the LGBT community are the focal point of three forms of discrimination:

• Racism

• Anti-gay stigmas

• Discrimination due to size

 

As with all men of color, African-Americans and Latinos are often the victims of stereotypes, discrimination, and stigmas that can affect their perceptions of themselves and how they are treated in society. As a result, a “me against the world” mentality can quickly be developed and, in some cases, taught to explain why white society seeks to subjugate minority groups.

 

African-American and Latino members of the LGBT community face cultural and religious bias in their communities that contribute to feelings of isolation and depression and the high rates of homelessness in African-American and Latino gay teens. Because these cultures teach that homosexuality is wrong and, in many cases, a sin, many find it difficult to accept themselves and embrace their sexuality, leading to a denial of their true selves, isolation from friends and family, and self-deprecation.  

Like most segments of society, the LGBT community also stigmatizes overweight and obese members. In addition to the health risks accompanying being overweight, one can quickly feel excluded from a culture that emphasizes physical appearance and fitness.   

 

It’s easy to see how an LGBT man of size and color can feel lonely and ostracized. The majority rejects them for being of color, in their own cultural and religious groups for being gay, and even in the LGBT community simply for being too big. Therefore, it is essential that these men find a safe place where they can congregate, commiserate, and embrace others who share their similarities, differences, and dreams.

 

We hope to create and strengthen individuals through our efforts to form a strong community that boasts physical and emotional health.  

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Love, Peace, and Light

Tony