The LGBTQ+ community is a group of queer folks united by a common culture and social movements. These communities usually celebrate individuality, gender, and sexuality. LGBTQ+ activists believe that LGBTQ+ community-building leads the way for fighting against things like heterosexism, homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. 

The term pride shows the LGBTQ+ community’s identity and strength as a collective. Events like pride parades are an excellent example of how people celebrate queer pride.  

Some groups that could be considered part of the LGBTQ+ community include queer neighborhoods, LGBTQ+ organizations, LGBTQ+ employee groups, LGBTQ+ student networks, and LGBTQ+– affirming religious organisations.  

In addition, LGBTQ+ communities may organise themselves into movements that support civil rights for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.  

Where is the highest number of LGBTQ+ people in the US?

Since the census does not ask individuals about their sexual orientation, there is no exact data in the United States about it. However, a new analysis of Gallup survey data provides the most accurate and detailed estimates thus far about where in the nation people have the highest LGBTQ+ population. 

According to the results, the Gallup analysis discovered that the largest concentration of LGBTQ+ people is in the West. Of course, there are the expected cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Portland— and there’s also Denver and Salt Lake City, which are in the top 10.

On the other hand, some cities on the East Coast are famous for their LGBTQ+ nightlife and neighborhoods. These cities include New York, Miami, and Washington. Finally, the least number of LGBTQ+ people in urban areas are located in the Midwest and South.

Ways to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community: a quick list

• Be a good listener.
• Keep an open mind. 
• Be willing to engage in conversation. 
• Include and invite LGBTQ+ friends to spend time with your friends and family.
• Don’t make assumptions about people’s sexual orientation or gender identity. 
• Be mindful of anti-LGBTQ+ comments and/or jokes at the expense of the community. Speak up if you hear someone say something offensive.
• Take the time to confront your prejudices and inherent biases, even if it makes you uncomfortable. 
• Defend your LGBTQ+ friends who experience discrimination.

Financial support 

One of the most significant ways to support the LGBTQ+ community is through financial contributions and support. According to a 2016 survey from Prudential Financial, LGBTQ+ respondents experience an income gap related to their sexual orientation or gender. With income disparities occurring, many LGBTQ+ people require financial help to get through their daily lives. You can support the community by donating money to a marginalized person’s crowdfunding campaign, donating money to a renowned LGBTQ+ group, and many more.  

Inclusive of all voices 

A good LGBTQ+ ally will include all queer voices like BIPOC people, sex workers, impoverished trans people, people with disabilities, and many other identities. Fighting for the most marginalized queer people’s rights is essential, and the community and a good ally must support these groups. 

Understand the big picture 

To be a strong ally, it’s essential to learn how LGBTQ+ people’s gender identity and sexuality occur to our culture’s social issues, such as sex work, workplace discrimination, etc. For example, the Williams Institute reported that lesbian, gay, and bisexual employees are more likely to report being fired from their employment or denied job opportunities than their straight, cisgender, and white counterparts.

Support queer artists 

Supporting the queer community’s artists is essential to being a good ally. This can look like hosting panels for queer sex educators or providing spaces for the most marginalised identities in the community.

In summary 

Feeling part of the LGBTQ+ community can positively impact people’s mental health, emotional well-being, and quality of life. The word ‘community’ is meaningful to many LGBTQ+ people and can create lasting connections. More and more cities throughout the US have LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhoods, resources, and opportunities for their queer communities.

Ryan Blooom works for Cache Media Group.