Common Misconceptions of the LGBT Economy

Are LGBT families always wealthy? Are they impacted by the economy in the same way other individuals are?

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Summary:

In the article, "Economics of Equality," from ProQuest's research database, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley’s discusses his recent press release on the inequality between LGBT and straight people's basic economic rights.

Important Passages:

• "As a result of recent progress, there is a common misconception in this country that individuals who identify as LGBT tend to be well-off and have political power," said Rep. Quigley. "The truth is the LGBT community is disproportionately impacted by poverty and income inequality compared to their non-LGBT counterparts."
• Analysis
• I think it is very important to differentiate between the LGBT stereotypes we see on television like Cam and Mitchell from Modern Family, they are a wealthy couple that perpetuates stereotypes. I think this idea is interesting because in order to introduce this 'alternative couple' they must first stereotype them, so people will think that they are not that different from the rest of society. But by promoting this false stereotype people become extremely biased against those of the LGBT community.
• "An estimated 1.6 million youth experience homelessness in the United States every year, but 40% of these young people are believed to identify as LGBT."
• Analysis
• Young people should never be discriminated against because of something that differentiated them from the rest of the population. No one gay or straight should be more likely to be homeless.
• "The failure of our laws to protect LGBT people in finding a job, obtaining safe housing, and getting a quality education contributes to economic instability within the LGBT community, particularly for women, transgender people, and people of color. Policies that fight inequality and boost opportunity such as comprehensive non-discrimination, expanding Medicaid coverage, and improvements to vital safety net programs are needed to help all people, including LGBT people, have secure futures."
• As a nation we are reaching a turning point in our culture, as LGBT rights are in the spotlight, the public is finally realizing the importance of this community. They deserve the same opportunities and safety as everyone else. It's terrible that just because of your orientation you can be so disadvantaged. Much like women and African-Americans, LGBT people need to have their rights equalized although it will take time just as the other movements did, and are still progressing it is necessary for the future.

Further Research:

• For the next blog post I want to begin my interview process with actual individuals that experience this inequality.