June marks Pride Month, a dedicated period for celebrating and commemorating the LGBTQ+ community. This is an opportunity to reflect upon the rich history and individual lives that make up this vibrant community. Yet, it’s also a stark reminder of the adversities this group continues to face. A particularly pressing issue is homelessness and housing insecurity, which disproportionately affects LGBTQ+ individuals.

Studies show queer adults are twice as likely to have experienced homelessness compared to the general population. It’s important to note that the term “queer” is inclusive, accommodating individuals who don’t identify as exclusively straight or conform to binary gender identities.

Discrimination, both subtle and explicit, creates significant disparities for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the housing sector. The prejudice these individuals face can be traced historically to biased policies and attitudes. Despite some progress, LGBTQ+ individuals still report higher rates of housing discrimination, which confirms the fight for equal housing access is far from over. This inequality is keenly felt by individuals who identify as queer, highlighting the necessity to recognize and address their unique needs and experiences. There is a pressing need to tackle these disparities head-on and foster a world where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels safe, secure and accepted.