by B. Burke, Public Education Content Manager for Mental Health America
From anti-LGBTQ+ legislation to identity-based violence, the LGBTQ+ community has experienced significant trauma in recent years. This Pride Month, it is important to recognize the challenges the LGBTQ+ community has faced, while celebrating moments of joy and positive news. Here are 10 good news for the LGBTQ+ community to start Pride Month with a smile:
Legislation
1. In countries around the world, legislation passed in 2023 to make places safer for LGBTQ+ people. This includes marriage equality, adoption rights, legal gender recognition for transgender people, and more.
2. President Biden’s pro-LGBTQ+ timeline demonstrates the actions the White House has already taken and will take to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ people. These include addressing transphobic violence and creating a safer future for LGBTQ+ youth.
3. Many states have recently passed laws to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ people, including Maine, Michiganand Arizona. More recent Anti-LGBTQ+ bills are failing. For example, in Kentucky, Florida, Georgia, and West Virginia, nearly all anti-LGBTQ+ measures were defeated this year.
Arts and Media
4. Almost 200 young adult books with queer characters will be published in 2023. LGBTQ+ Book Sale have increased significantly over the course of recent years.
5. Eight LGBTQ+ activists and artists triumphed Time’s “most influential” list in 2024including transgender actor Elliot Page.
6. Danger! champion Amy Schnieder made history as the first openly transgender contestant to qualify for the Tournament of Champions.
Youth defense
7. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed a new rule that would ensure LGBTQ+ youth in foster care would be placed in an affirming home.
8. New Trevor Project survey illustrates High support among parents for transgender and non-binary youth.. For example, the survey found that 69% of adults would honor their child’s chosen name and pronouns if they came out as transgender or nonbinary.
Sports
9. In 2023, coach kevin maxen of the Jacksonville Jaguars was the first NFL coach to come out as openly gay. This representation paves the way for other LGBTQ+ coaches and athletes.
10. The NHL overturned ban on pride ribbonstating that players could show their support for social causes on the ice.
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