21 percent. While only 0.19 percent of elected officials nationwide identify as openly LGBTQ, an estimated 5.6 percent of Americans identify as LGBTQ – and this is likely an underestimation.Today, as we mark the beginning of Pride month, we must acknowledge this gap in representation and the hard work that lies ahead.
Anti-transgender violence is on the rise, the pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues for many LGBTQ people, and state legislatures across the country are actively attacking the transgender community.
Last year, 44 transgender people were killed in the U.S. — with almost 80 percent of them being people of color. Also, too many transgender people still face barriers to accessing critical care, finding work and stable.