Why climate change is an LGBTQ+ issue

Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is an LGBTQ+ issue.

From heightened risks of homelessness to systemic discrimination during natural disasters, the impacts of climate change on marginalized groups are far-reaching and devastating. Everyone across the world, no matter who they are, will feel the impact of climate change in some way.

But the simple fact is: LGBTQ+ people, as well as other marginalized communities, disproportionately suffer the consequences.

The continued impact of LGBTQ+ poverty

Decades of research has shown that marginalized groups are more likely to face poverty, discrimination, and violence. Not only is this a day-to-day societal disadvantage, but it also further limits their access to resources and ability to adapt to environmental changes. For example, LGBTQ+ people often face homelessness due to family conflicts and threats of abuse.

In fact, LGBTQ+ youth are 120% more likely to experience homelessness in the US compared to cisgender, heterosexual people. Factors like housing instability, food insecurity, and overall uncertainty about mental health and well-being all contribute to extreme poverty and homelessness – which in turn, is only worsened by the climate crisis.

Studies show that existing inequalities in housing, healthcare, and other areas disproportionately affect queer people during disasters. LGBTQ+ people, particularly BIPOC, are at a significantly higher risk, immediately making them the most vulnerable subculture to natural disasters, rising temperatures, and polluted air. But when the time comes to help out those most in need, privileged sectors of society are consistently prioritized.