America’s LGBTQ community among financially worst-hit by Covid-19

America’s LGBTQ community is more likely to have been economically devastated by the Covid-19 epidemic than the general population.

A new report released by the HRC Foundation and conducted by PSB Research found that LGBTQ people are more likely to have experienced a cut in work hours. They are more likely to feel their personal finances are in worse shape due to the pandemic and are more likely to be taking steps to actively prepare for the virus.

They are also more likely to trust public health officials and are less likely to trust President Trump’s leadership.

“It is unfortunately not surprising to see that the LGBTQ community is facing adverse economic impacts due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” said HRC President Alphonso David.

“This new data bears out our initial predictions that LGBTQ people were likely to face greater economic hardship, and is more proof that the most marginalised communities are the most at risk. We have seen the health impact of this virus on communities of colour, and we now have the data to show how the LGBTQ community is struggling.”

David added: “For those of us at the intersections of these identities, it is even more profound. We must take this moment to fight for the resources to ensure that communities most impacted can weather this storm.”

The report found that:

• 30% of LGBTQ respondents have had their work hours reduced, compared to 22% of the general population
• 20% of LGBTQ people say their personal finances are “much worse off” than they were a year ago, compared to only 11% of the general population
• LGBTQ people are twice as likely as the general population to think their finances will be much worse off a year from now, 10% to 5%
• 42% of LGBTQ people have adjusted their household budgets, compared to 30% of the general population
• 56% of LGBTQ people trust the World Health Organization (WHO) compared to 35% of the general population and
• 55% trust the CDC, compared to 46% of the general population.
• Only 14% trust President Trump as a source of information, compared to 22% of the general population

“The COVID-19 pandemic has shined a light on many unfortunate realities we face in our society, as the virus has delivered disproportionate impact across various communities, including LGBTQ people,” said Peter Horst, CEO of PSB Research. “It’s yet another reminder of the importance of allowing data to speak the truths we need to hear in order to address our challenges…”

In South Africa, GALA – Queer Archive has called on members of the queer community to submit their stories and experiences dealing with the coronavirus lockdown to queervoices20@gmail.com.

To stay up to date on coronavirus news, developments and symptoms, visit the SA government’s official coronavirus resource website here.