Religion
traditionally has been a major source of institutional support and
well-being
for Black people in the USA. However,
when juxtaposed with sexuality,
religion’s positive effect upon non-heterosexual individuals is
questionable. Research suggests that
non-heterosexuals often abandon structured religion for spirituality
due to the
homonegativity perpetuated through religious institutions.
Although studies have examined religion and
spirituality among gays and lesbians, few have examined their roles in
the
lives of bisexuals. In this study, we
analyzed qualitative interviews of 28 bisexual Black men who resided in
New York City. In addition to church attendance,
participants expressed belonging to religious communities through
activities
(i.e. music ministry). Despite rejection
because of their bisexuality, some participants saw other religious
individuals
as being accepting of them. Others
discussed church as a place where non-heterosexuals interacted, often
for
meeting sexual partners. Participants
evoked beliefs in God in coping with adverse life experiences; some
linked
faith to familial and sexual responsibilities.
Drawing upon relevant literature, we discuss the implications of
religion and spirituality for the quality of life of bisexual Black men
in the USA.