Support for LGBT+ equality remains high in the US, study finds

Support for equal rights for queer people in the United States remains high, with 80 percent of Americans expressing support, according to GLAAD’s latest “Accelerating Acceptance” study, released Thursday (15). However, that number represents a slight drop from last year’s record 84 percent.

Sarah Kate Ellis, president and CEO of GLAAD, attributes the decline to increased negative rhetoric and misinformation campaigns promoted by extremist politicians and media outlets. “These same lawmakers and judges who attack rights like abortion, contraception, and free speech are now directing their fear tactics and misinformation against the LGBTQ+ community,” Ellis wrote in the study’s introduction.

The study also highlights the impact of more than 500 anti-LGBTQIA+ legislative proposals introduced in U.S. states this year, even if most do not become law. Ellis warns that the public debate over LGBT+ rights has real consequences, pointing to a 19 percent increase in hate crimes against the community, according to the FBI’s most recent report, including a 35 percent spike in crimes against transgender people.

Despite this challenging scenario, the study reveals positive data: 95% of non-queer respondents believe that schools should be safe and welcoming for all young people, and 91% agree that LGBTQ+ people should live without fear. In addition, 82% say they would support a friend or family member who came out as gay or bisexual, and 77% would do the same for someone who came out as trans or non-binary.

However, less than 30% of respondents reported personally knowing someone who is LGBT+, which may influence their perceptions. The study also finds that Gen Z LGBTQIA+ people report higher incidences of discrimination compared to previous generations, with 70% of young people reporting discrimination based on gender identity.

GLAAD suggests that media visibility and personal interactions are the main ways to combat prejudice, although exposure to LGBT+ content in advertising, TV and films has decreased slightly compared to the previous year. The biggest negative influence, according to the study, comes from representations on social media and in news coverage.

The study was conducted online in January 2024 with a national sample of 2,511 American adults and highlights the importance of continuing to fight for acceptance and equality for all people, regardless of their sexual identity or orientation.

By Ezatamentchy