A collection of valuable resources for the LGBTQ+ community and its supporters.
What better way to honor Pride Month than with a groundbreaking Supreme Court ruling that prohibits discrimination against individuals based on gender identity and sexual orientation? On June 15, the court's decision expanded Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which already prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin.
However, there's still much work to be done. Without federal protections for LGBTQI individuals in housing, education, healthcare, and public accommodations, countless people will continue to face discrimination. (Check out the details in By the Numbers: Being LGBTQ+ In America.)
Numerous organizations are active in supporting and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. Below, we feature about a dozen groups to help you find information on state laws, locate local chapters for potential support or volunteer opportunities, and identify those offering mental health and legal assistance.
Becoming an LGBTQ+ ally: Guidance is available from PFLAG, GLAAD, GLSEN (targeting students), and the Transequality Group.
Local actions: Assess your community's stance on LGBTQ+ equality and discover ways to contribute through the Human Rights Campaign.
Discrimination reporting: To report discrimination, use this form for LGBTQ/HIV-related complaints via the ACLU. For legal assistance, reach out to your local ACLU affiliate. Here are instructions for filing a discrimination charge with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Family leave regulations: Check out a map of current FMLA laws to see if your employer must grant leave for caring for a spouse, partner, or child if you're not in a legally-recognized relationship.
Support for LGBTQ seniors: Sage aids LGBTQ seniors in tackling issues like housing discrimination while connecting them with eldercare resources. It's also part of the National Resource Center on LGBT Aging.
Transgender rights resources: The National Center for Transgender Equality advocates for transgender individuals by working on various levels to modify laws and policies. Its Trans Legal Network consists of 50 organizations that assist transgender individuals with legal matters related to name and gender changes. The organization's Know Your Rights section offers up-to-date information on rights and resources pertaining to airport security, schools, healthcare, and more.
Crisis intervention and suicide prevention: TheTrevorProject.org offers 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ youth under 25 via online, text, and phone at 866-488-7386.
Immigration assistance: The National Immigrant Justice Center's LGBTQ Immigrant Rights Initiative delivers legal services to low-income LGBTQ immigrants.
LGBTQ+ financial planning: The XY Planning Network helps you locate financial planners experienced in working with LGBTQ women and LGBTQIA individuals. The College for Financial Planning database features a filter for planners with Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisors (ADPA) certification, indicating training in crucial areas like wealth transfers, federal taxation, retirement planning, and financial and medical end-of-life planning.
Employment and investment opportunities: Seek employment and invest in businesses committed to equality. The Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index assesses large companies based on their dedication to LGBTQ equality and inclusion.
Resources for students, parents, and educators: Locate your local GLSEN chapter that offers programs and resources aimed at enhancing conditions for LGBTQ students in K-12 settings. Additionally, explore the LGBTQ Scholarship database curated by the Human Rights Campaign.
