Artist Statement
The juxtaposition between the idea that we are equal in the U.S. and the reality for black people in America creates a false sense of security for many queer and black people in their day to day lives. The constant thought of being a victim to unjust violence because of the color of one’s skin or lack of this awareness that racism threatens the lives of black people in America create a relationship with security, vulnerability and comfort that parallel ones experience with the false sense of security provided by bathrooms.

LGBTQ+ Statement
This false sense of security is something that I personally feel as a black, queer, women navigating through cities and university settings and something that I am currently exploring in my work. I am constantly aware of the intersectionality of my race, sexuality, and gender and the target that could potentially be placed on my back but unless I am in the presence of a police officer, white supremist, or any threatening figure I live with ease and can push the concept of my life being at risk to the back of my head knowing that I’ve had friends and family members abused by the law enforcement system. These constant thoughts remind me of my privacy that one feels they have while existing in a bathroom.

Restrooms encourage the sitter to feel as vulnerable and alone as possible. These spaces invite individuals to expose themselves behind the safety of a locked door. This space should never be violated but can be with ease. Most bathroom locks can easily be broken, the window can easily be peeped into or one can look through the crevices of a bathroom stall crack. The total privacy that one feels like they can experience in a bathroom is a total illusion, just like the idea that walking through the world as a black queer woman.