Queer and trans communities have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in unique and significant ways. The history of the LGBTQ community is one of bravery and resilience, but it is also unfortunately one of unequal treatment, discrimination and violence that carries into the present day. LGBTQ Americans are still fighting for equality in the law, society, healthcare and our personal lives. Existing disparities in the LGBTQ community are only intensified by the current pandemic. According to the Human Rights Campaign, “in addition to the greater risk of health complications as a result of COVID-19, LGBTQ Americans are more likely than the general population to live in poverty and lack access to adequate medical care, paid medical leave, and basic necessities during the pandemic”.
"In addition to the greater risk of health complications as a result of COVID-19, LGBTQ Americans are more likely than the general population to live in poverty and lack access to adequate medical care, paid medical leave, and basic necessities during the pandemic."
Human Rights Campaign
These issues are further compounded by stigma, lack of social or familial support, mental health, and other challenges faced by queer and trans individuals. Queer and trans people, especially queer and trans people of color, have historically been neglected and marginalized. It is crucial that we track the unique ways in which these communities have been affected by the pandemic. As actor and trans activist Indya Moore said in a podcast called “The Trans Response to Coronavirus: Taking Action”: “I’m always thinking about how queer and trans people are keeping up...Our community is the last to be sought out for and the last to be looked after… I’m always thinking about black trans women, gender nonconforming and queer folk.” It is crucial that we do the same.
“I’m always thinking about how queer and trans people are keeping up...Our community is the last to be sought out for and the last to be looked after…I’m always thinking about black trans women, gender nonconforming and queer folk.”
Indya Moore, actor, writer, director, and trans social activist
Human Rights Campaign: "The Lives and Livelihoods of Many in the LGBTQ Community are at Risk Amidst COVID-19 Crisis"
"Lives at Stake; The Trans Response to Coronavirus: Taking Action"
Video recording of "Lives at Stake"