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Opal is a public sociologist and organizer in Atlanta, Georgia. Their work seeks to promote holistic community-centered solutions, which address critical social problems, and advance a culture of health.
MORE ABOUT OPAL
As a Sadler Scholar at The Hasting Center of Bioethics, and former policy researcher at the Southern Center for Human Rights, Opal has multiple years of experience translating their research into actionable policy solutions. Opal is also an educator at Georgia State University, teaching courses such as Introduction to Social Problems, Introduction to COVID-19 and Systemic Racism, and A Critical Lens on Diversity Equity and Inclusion.
DISSERTATION GRANT AWARDEE — FALL 2024
Examining Intersectional Stigma Among Black Non-binary Adults: A Multi-Level Analysis
Opal Gay’s dissertation examines the intersectional stigma faced by Black nonbinary adults, focusing on how structural, cultural, institutional, and interpersonal forces shape stigmatizing encounters and contribute to health disparities. Utilizing qualitative methods, Gay explores the mechanisms of minority stress as well as the resilience strategies employed by this understudied population.
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