GLAAD Report: High Support for LGBTQ Americans but Issues Persist

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) has released its annual Accelerating Acceptance Study, revealing a slight decline in overall support for the LGBTQ community, despite a sustained supermajority of Americans backing LGBTQ rights. GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis emphasized that the findings arrive at a critical moment for both the LGBTQ community and the nation, highlighting a troubling increase in discriminatory incidents, particularly among Gen-Z individuals. The study indicates that while 95% of non-LGBTQ Americans believe schools should be safe and accepting for all youth, and 93% advocate for teaching children to appreciate diversity, there has been a significant rise in anti-LGBTQ incidents. From June 2022 to June 2023, reported incidents surged by 109%, totaling 1,087 cases. GLAAD noted that the impact of disinformation campaigns has contributed to a drop in support for equal rights, now at 80%, down from 84% last year, with 70% of Gen-Z LGBTQ members experiencing discrimination based on sexual orientation. Despite these challenges, non-LGBTQ respondents reported increased comfort levels with LGBTQ individuals in various contexts, including family, healthcare, and the workplace. Additionally, a recent Human Rights Campaign report highlighted improvements in LGBTQ+ protections under President Biden compared to the previous administration, showcasing a growing consensus across political lines for prioritizing issues like inflation and healthcare over restrictive policies. Ellis concluded that the future of democracy and the safety of the LGBTQ community depend on continued advocacy and support for equal rights.