Everyone has a unique sexual orientation and gender identity. LGBTQIA2S+ is an umbrella term used to refer to people who have a sexual orientation or gender identity that is different from the majority. It is important to note that identifying as LGBTQIA2S+ is NOT a mental illness or disorder, however, many members of this community do suffer from mental health issues. Additionally, many LGBTQIA2S+ individuals are part of other marginalized communities such as BIPOC, people with physical disabilities, those with a different religion than their neighbors, and those with a low socioeconomic status.
These individuals have complex experiences that cannot be easily addressed in one area of their life. Furthermore, there are many negative stereotypes about being LGBTQIA2S+, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and rejection. Fortunately, there are many ways to help reduce poverty among LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in your community. One way is to support organizations that provide resources and services specifically for this population.
GLSEN has a website on native and indigenous LGBTQ youth in U. S. schools, while the National Network of Queer and Trans Therapists of Color (NQTTCN) provides a directory of mental health professionals from the QTPOC community. The National Center for LGBT Health Education also offers learning resources for providers.
In addition to supporting organizations that provide resources and services for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, you can also help by advocating for policies and laws that affirm and support this population. Social workers have an important role to play in promoting policies, laws and programs that value LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, families and communities. Finally, you can help reduce poverty among LGBTQIA2S+ individuals by educating yourself and others about this population. Learning about the unique challenges faced by this group can help create an environment where they feel accepted and supported.
By taking action to support organizations that provide resources and services for LGBTQIA2S+, advocating for policies and laws that affirm this population, and educating yourself and others about their unique challenges, you can make a difference in reducing poverty among LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in your community.