Cheyenne Character Analysis in When They Call You a Terrorist

Cheyenne was Patrisse’s first girlfriend. She was a basketball player from an unstable home who ultimately dropped out of school because she didn’t have money to pay for the bus to get there. They started dating during their sophomore year, exchanging poetry, reading about race and gender, and talking about spirituality. They felt safe among their friends (many of whom were also queer) at school, but they faced homophobia in the outside world. Their relationship ended when Cheyenne left Patrisse for one of their mutual friends.

Cheyenne Character Timeline in When They Call You a Terrorist

The timeline below shows where the character Cheyenne appears in When They Call You a Terrorist. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

...on social justice and the arts at Cleveland High School. In 10th grade, they befriend Cheyenne—whom Patrisse will become very close to—and Carla, who is bold, loud, and queer. Patrisse tells... (full context)

...her family, too. They are awkward and quiet, and then Patrisse starts telling Naomi about Cheyenne (the basketball player she is dating) and how they talk about spirituality, read books about... (full context)

Patrisse starts to bring Cheyenne back to her home, which is challenging because Patrisse and her family have moved into... (full context)

Patrisse and Cheyenne feel protected in the classroom where queer kids hang out at Cleveland, but in the... (full context)

External Forces vs. Personal Responsibility Theme Icon

...and Mark Anthony form a deep friendship not based on sex. Patrisse is still dating Cheyenne, though they are starting to grow apart. Mark Anthony is also reserved, which helps. Their... (full context)

...still angry but agrees to it because their “little tribe” is “committed to courageous conversations.” Cheyenne had recently left her for one of Patrisse’s friends, and Patrisse doesn’t want any relationship... (full context)