Book overview
LGBTQ+ People with Intellectual Disabilities: Stories from the Rainbow Support Group fills a gap in the literature by providing readers with insight into the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals living with intellectual disabilities (ID). The book underscores the unique intersectionality of LGBTQ+ and intellectual disabilities through observations and accounts from the Rainbow Support Group, a gathering established in 1998 in New Haven, Connecticut, with focus on supporting queer members with ID.
The book explores the challenges and breakthroughs related to sexual orientation and gender expression among the ID community in the Rainbow Support Group. It lays bare the often-overlooked reality that individuals with ID have complex sexual identities, challenging societal preconceived notions and biases. The book emphasizes the importance of creating affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals who have been denied sexual expression opportunities, touching on themes of self-awareness, isolation, companionship, and the process of coming out.
LGBTQ+ People with Intellectual Disabilities is an ideal text for courses that address intellectual disability, LGBTQ+ studies, social work, human rights advocacy, and community leadership. The book is part of the Cognella Series on Families and Social Justice, a collection of textbooks that support core curriculum within family-related disciplines with emphasis on issues related to social justice, diversity, and equity.
