LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Communities: Work and Housing

Mark Mwandoro
​Marketing Director

Embracing LGBTQIA+ people and actively fostering inclusive communities can yield a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond surface-level improvements. By creating environments that genuinely embrace diversity, such communities not only attract businesses and tourism but also become magnets for talented professionals. This, in turn, promotes sustained economic growth and development. When LGBTQIA+ people are able to live and work without the constant fear of discrimination or marginalization, it fosters a vibrant local economy grounded in inclusivity. This open and accepting environment allows for the flourishing of innovative ideas, creativity, and collaboration. The skills and talents brought by LGBTQIA+ people contribute to a diverse and dynamic workforce, propelling industries forward and enhancing the overall competitiveness and adaptability of these communities. Moreover, research and studies have consistently shown that businesses and organizations who prioritize inclusivity and diversity tend to outperform their counterparts that do not. 
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By valuing and respecting the unique perspectives and experiences of LGBTQIA+ people, these companies benefit from a broader range of ideas, increased customer base, and improved employee engagement and productivity. Beyond the economic advantages, embracing LGBTQIA+ people and fostering inclusive communities is also a reflection of basic human rights and social progress. It sends a powerful message that every individual, of any sexual orientation or gender identity, is deserving of dignity, respect, and equal opportunities. In doing so, it helps to dismantle deep-rooted prejudices and misconceptions, promoting understanding, empathy, and social cohesion. The benefits of embracing LGBTQIA+ people and fostering inclusive communities go well beyond the scope of just economic growth. They encompass societal progress, human rights, and the overall wellbeing of communities. By prioritizing inclusivity, we not only create thriving economies but also cultivate a more compassionate, equitable, and vibrant world for all people to thrive and flourish.

Moreover, embracing LGBTQIA+ people promotes diversity, fosters cultural understanding, and enriches the social fabric of a community. Their different perspectives and experiences contribute to an inclusive society, reducing prejudice and promoting acceptance. LGBTQIA+ people bring unique contributions to the cultural landscape, fostering creativity, and broadening societal norms. Communities that celebrate and embrace diversity in all its forms create a more inclusive and vibrant environment for everyone.

Inclusive communities tend to have stronger social bonds and higher levels of social cohesion. When LGBTQIA+ people are accepted and celebrated, it cultivates a sense of belonging, leading to stronger community connections and overall well-being. Inclusive neighborhoods are more likely to develop social support networks, community organizations, and resources that benefit all residents. This social cohesion enhances the quality of life for people, fosters a sense of community pride, and promotes the well-being of all community members.

Cities and regions that actively promote LGBTQIA+ inclusivity become appealing places to live, work, and study for a diverse range of people. By embracing diversity, communities can retain and attract talented people, fostering innovation and contributing to overall prosperity. LGBTQIA+ people are professionals, students, entrepreneurs, and artists who make valuable contributions to various sectors of society. By creating an environment that respects and supports their rights, communities can attract a diverse pool of talent, resulting in economic growth and cultural enrichment.
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Access to safe and inclusive housing positively impacts the mental health and well-being of LGBTQIA+ people. Feeling accepted and supported reduces stress, anxiety, and the risk of homelessness, enabling people to thrive and make positive contributions to their community. Stable housing provides a foundation for people to pursue education, employment, and personal growth, improving mental and physical health outcomes. It is essential to create housing policies and programs that prioritize the well-being of LGBTQIA+ people and foster a sense of belonging and security.

Creating inclusive housing opportunities for LGBTQIA+ people is not only a matter of fairness and equality but also a means to foster thriving communities. By addressing housing discrimination, implementing comprehensive legal protections, and cultivating inclusive environments, we can unlock the countless benefits that arise from embracing diversity and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued. Through these efforts, we can work towards a future where housing is accessible to all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, and where the advantages of LGBTQIA+ inclusion are fully realized. people, communities, and policymakers must collaborate to create an inclusive housing landscape that respects the rights and dignity of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

References

• “The ‘gentrification’ Effect: Why Gay Neighbourhoods Are Being Priced Out.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 2016, www.theguardian.com/cities/2016/jan/13/end-of-gaytrification-cities-lgbt-communities-gentrification-gay-villages. Accessed 10 June 2023.
  
  

• “Explore LGBT Friendly Neighborhoods around St. Louis.” Explore St. Louis, 11 July 2022, explorestlouis.com/discover/st-louis-lgbt/lgbt-friendly-neighborhoods/. Accessed 10 June 2023.
  
  

• “2SLGBTQIA+ Housing Needs and Challenges.” CMHC, www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/blog/2022/2slgbtqia-housing-needs-challenges. Accessed 12 June 2023. 
  
  

• Romero, A. P., et al. LGBT People and Housing Affordability, Discrimination, and Homelessness. The Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law, 2020. 
  
  

• “Housing Discrimination and Persons Identifying as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and/or Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ).” HUD.Gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/housing_discrimination_and_persons_identifying_lgbtq. Accessed 15 June 2023. 
  
  

• Fraser, Brodie, et al. “LGBTIQ+ Homelessness: A Review of the Literature.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 26 July 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6695950/. Accessed 15 June 2023.
  
  

• “Discrimination in Real Estate: ‘...Then They Came for Me.’” YouTube, 21 Aug. 2020, youtu.be/zVjZtXLf1c0. Accessed 15 June 2023. 
  
  

• “An Oral History - the LGBTQ+ Community’s Journey to Homeownership: Chapter 1 - Greenwich Village.” YouTube, 25 Feb. 2021, youtu.be/nk2zxlb34Hs. Accessed 15 June 2023.