LGBTQ+ Equality Crisis: The Best And Worst States To Live In 2024 Revealed!
New report suggests: LGBTQ+ rights in America are in peril! Uncover the best and worst states to live in 2024. 🌈 #BreakingNews #LGBTQEquality #HumanRights
America’s Fight for LGBTQ+ Equality
ST. PAUL, MN – The fight for LGBTQ+ equality in America is taking a shocking turn as a new report unveils a nationwide decline in support. While the number of non-heterosexual Americans has surged, anti-LGBTQ+ policies are spreading like wildfire.
Which states are champions of equality, and which are falling behind? Discover the surprising rankings that could affect where you choose to live!
Growing Community, Growing Challenges
A recent report reveals that LGBTQ+ equality is on the decline across the United States.
The number of non-heterosexual Americans has doubled over the past decade, reaching over 7% in 2022. Despite this growth, the LGBTQ+ community is facing increased challenges.
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A new report by Out Leadership, a global LGBTQ+ business platform, highlights these issues. The organization has been publishing the State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index annually for six years, assessing each state’s stance on gay rights and equality.
Editor’s note: We think everyone should be able to travel the world in a way that feels true to who they are. We love sharing ideas and tips for LGBTQ+ travelers. Our goal is simple: write articles that focus on welcoming places in the Midwest, spark excitement for travel, and show pride in being yourself.
Decreasing Equality Nationwide
According to the report, LGBTQ+ equality has decreased for the second consecutive year. The average score of all 50 states has dropped, largely due to the adoption of anti-trans policies by over 20 states. The cultural and political climate is rapidly changing, undoing two decades of progress towards equality.
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A Polarized Nation
The report also emphasizes the growing polarization across the country. States that excel in LGBTQ+ equality continue to thrive, while those hostile to LGBTQ+ rights hinder the community’s ability to live and work freely.
Top States for LGBTQ+ Equality
New York tops the list with a score of 93.67 out of 100. Following closely are Connecticut (93.27), Massachusetts (92), and New Jersey (90). Regionally, Illinois leads in the Midwest, Virginia in the Southeast, Colorado in the West, and New Mexico in the Southwest.
Positive Changes
Sixteen states have improved their scores since last year. Michigan, Georgia, and Oregon saw the most significant increases. Michigan, in particular, made notable progress with a 4.87-point increase due to implementing a statewide ban on conversion therapy.
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Rising Anti-Gay Policies
Despite some positive changes, the American Civil Liberties Union reports that hundreds of anti-gay policies and regulations have been introduced in 40 states this year alone.
The Worst States for LGBTQ+ Equality
For the second year in a row, Arkansas scored the lowest, with a score of 27 out of 100, five points lower than in 2023. Louisiana (31.50) and South Carolina (31.90) are also among the worst states for LGBTQ+ equality.
The Index Categories
The State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index scores states based on five categories: Legal and Nondiscrimination Protections, Youth and Family Support, Political and Religious Attitudes, Health Access and Safety, and Work Environment and Employment. Each category accounts for 20% of the overall score.
This report highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ equality in the U.S., showing significant differences in support across the states.
Stay informed about LGBTQ+ rights and equality with our latest articles and updates. Follow our blog for more news and insights!
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Read the full report here (PDF).
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