Problems (and Solutions) for the LGBTQ+ during COVID-19

The ongoing health crisis and economic depression showed us many problems with our system. It showed us how easy it is to lose employment, healthcare, and stability. But it especially showed us how easy it is to lose these if you are a minority. Among many of our systemic problems being exposed, discrimination in the workforce and within healthcare towards the LGBTQ+ community and other minorities has become outrageously evident.d

On Monday 15, the Supreme Court voted on Title VII, protecting workers from being fired based on their sexual orientation or transgender status. For many, it signified the end of job discrimination for the LGTBQ+, but recent studies show that the opposite is true. As more than 5 million LGBTQ+ people lose their job, many report that they are being discriminated against by both hospitals and employers, leading to the obvious question: Will Title VII really protect minorities during times of crisis? As of now, the answer could be no.

Among the many harsh realities being discovered by the public, the economic barriers placed upon marginalized groups is one of the scariest issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. According to a recent study conducted by the Human Rights Campaign and PSB Research, it was found that LGBTQ+ people are more likely to face reduced work hours. Furthermore, one in five LGBTQ+ people stated that their economic situation is getting progressively worst. But that isn’t even their biggest problem.

One of the issues which have always disproportionately affected the LGBTQ+ is access to healthcare, and as millions of Americans lose theirs, it becomes even harder for the LGBTQ+ to be treated, of whom 17% have no insurance. And discrimination, whether legal or not, remains rampant: One in four LGBTQ+ are currently reporting healthcare discrimination, and 29 % of transgender people have said that healthcare workers have refused to treat them due to their orientation.

Besides the economic challenges, the pandemic has forced many LGTBQ+ people to go back into their homes, which are often not accepting. And so in the month of June, which every year brings the LGBTQ+ community together on the streets, people find themselves not being able to go out and access those support networks. 

But with all that said, there is a rainbow at the end of the tunnel. Even though people can’t be physically close, that doesn’t mean that they can’t be together.  While parades and celebrations were canceled, the internet has provided a new platform where LGBTQ+ can be together and share their voice. Among these are the hundreds of pride celebrations across the world, which we have and will continue to cover. 

On top of that, relief organizations such as Candid Funding for Coronavirus, Campaign for Southern Equality, and Contigo Fund have put forth a tremendous effort to support LGBTQ+ businesses and people during these trying times, showing that we can make a change from within.

With all of the confusion and despair, one thing is clear: The LGBTQ+ community is alive and present, and Pride Palace is here to keep you posted about everything that’s going on. So stay engaged and live Pride Month with us!