Derrick Clifton is an award-winning writer and journalist focusing on identity, wellness, culture and social justice. Based in Illinois, Clifton’s work has appeared at outlets including Vox, The Root, Mic, The Guardian, Chicago Reader, Out, Quartz and NBC News

Actor Jussie Smollett has been at the forefront of the continued growth of Black LGBT representation in mainstream culture in recent years, through his portrayal of Jamal Lyon on “Empire,” a gay character who carries the trauma of abuse from school bullies and a homophobic father.

After confirming his sexual orientation on “Ellen” in 2015, he’s advocated for HIV awareness for years, and even pushed for an HIV-centric plot line on “Empire.” He’s also recently championed fundraising efforts to save Bennett College, one of only two women-only HBCUs in existence.

His example as an out, Black LGBT person portraying out LGBT people in popular culture is one among many, when in previous years he might have been seen as a token or a character actor.

“Moonlight,” for instance, centered a Black man’s coming-of-age struggles with sexuality and identity and won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2017. “Pose,” which has picked up a host of Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice award nominations, offers a heartwarming glimpse into 1980s ball culture within Black and Latinx communities, and made TV history for having the largest cast of transgender series regulars. And, while reacting to her Grammy nod for Album of the Year, Janelle Monae said she created “Dirty Computer” as a young, Black and queer woman who wanted to celebrate her people.

But while Smollett and others entertain the masses, their work matters particularly to Black LGBT people who seek sources of inspiration as they endure the everyday push and pull of multiple, concurrent forms of prejudice.

That’s why an attack on Smollett struck Black and LGBT people at a deep, visceral level — which had led to an outpouring of support from allies as well. Read more via THINK