The Complexities of Queer Black Women

"You May Sit Beside Me" showcases 12 intimate portraits.

Maria Elena "Ri Ri" Garcia: Vocalist, Lyricist, Drummer, Producer and DJ - In her latest exhibition, "You May Sit Beside Me," photographer Laylah Amatullah Barrayn (not pictured) explores the community of queer Black women in her hometown of Brooklyn and beyond. Keep reading to learn more about the dynamic women behind these intimate portraits.  —Patrice Peck (@speakpatrice) (Photo: Courtesy of Laylah Amatullah) 
Angelique V. Nixon, Ph.D.: WriterArtistTeacherScholarActivistPoet - "I felt that there were many assumptions made about the community in general and not enough dialogue happening," Barrayn told BET.com. She embarked on the project hoping to "dismantle some fears" and draw parallels of the human experience. (Photo: Courtesy of Laylah Amatullah) 
Candace Hanna: Social Worker - A diverse group of 12 women were photographed and interviewed for "You May Sit Beside Me," which is currently showing at the Skylight Gallery in Brooklyn, New York. The photographer also had extensive conversations with others from the LGBTQ community. (Photo: Courtesy of Laylah Amatullah) Audrey Smaltz and Gail Marquis: Fashion Icon and Olympian - "I've always known that art is political," Barrayn told BET.com. "But, it is becoming very clear to me that photography is most certainly political, both the subject, the intention and photographer behind the camera." (Photo: Courtesy of Laylah Amatullah) 

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Maria Elena "Ri Ri" Garcia: Vocalist, Lyricist, Drummer, Producer and DJ - In her latest exhibition, "You May Sit Beside Me," photographer Laylah Amatullah Barrayn (not pictured) explores the community of queer Black women in her hometown of Brooklyn and beyond. Keep reading to learn more about the dynamic women behind these intimate portraits.  —Patrice Peck (@speakpatrice) (Photo: Courtesy of Laylah Amatullah) 

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