Nearly 9 in 10 registered LGBTQ+ voters, who make up 12% of the U.S. adult population, say they definitely plan to vote; civil rights and cost of living top voting priorities
WASHINGTON — Four weeks out from Election Day, new data from the 2026 Annual LGBTQ+ Community Survey analyzed by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation finds an LGBTQ+ electorate highly motivated heading into the midterm elections, with nearly nine in ten (87%) registered voters saying they definitely plan to vote. Civil rights and equal protections overwhelmingly rank as the leading issue shaping LGBTQ+ voters’ decisions at the ballot box, while economic pressures are also weighing heavily on the community. More than half of LGBTQ+ adults surveyed say they are struggling or just getting by financially, and nearly half say they are worse off financially than they were two years ago. Read the full findings here.
Earlier this year, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation released updated population estimates showing that a record-high 12% of U.S. adults – roughly 25.6 million people – identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or gender diverse – meaning LGBTQ+ voters could play a defining role in the results of the midterms.
“LGBTQ+ voters are paying attention, they understand what is at stake, and they are prepared to make their voices heard,” said HRC Foundation Sr. Director of Research and Education Tari Hanneman. “What jumps out from this data is how closely concerns about our fundamental freedoms are intertwined with the economic pressures people are experiencing in their everyday lives. LGBTQ+ people are worried about their jobs, their finances, and making ends meet, while also confronting very real fears that rights and protections they rely on could be taken away.”
The findings show civil rights remain at the center of LGBTQ+ voters’ priorities, with nearly three-quarters (73.7%) selecting civil rights and equal protections for LGBTQ+ people as one of the three issues most important in shaping their vote. Economic stability, inflation and the cost of living ranked second at 35.9%, followed by government accountability and corruption (32.5%), the functioning of democracy and elections (26.9%), and abortion and reproductive rights (26.8%). Those concerns come as respondents report widespread anxiety about the future of LGBTQ+ protections, including more than nine in ten who are worried that the Supreme Court could undermine federal workplace discrimination protections and more than eight in ten who are worried about marriage recognition.
Key Data Points:
87% of registered LGBTQ+ voters say they definitely will vote in the 2026 midterms, while another 7.5% say they probably will.
73.7% of LGBTQ+ voters select civil rights and equal protections for LGBTQ+ people as one of the three issues most important in shaping their vote
Some priorities differ by generation: LGBTQ+ adults ages 18–34 are more likely than those 65 and older to prioritize civil rights and reproductive rights, while economic stability and cost of living are particularly prominent among adults ages 55–64.
51.2% of LGBTQ+ voters say they are either finding it difficult to get by or are just getting by financially, while 47.2% say they are financially worse off than two years ago.
92% of LGBTQ+ voters are concerned that the Supreme Court could undermine federal workplace discrimination protections, and 85% are worried they could undermine marriage equality.
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people, with 4 million members and supporters. The HRC Foundation (a 501(c)(3)) works to ensure LGBTQ+ people are safe, seen and supported where it matters most: at school, at work and in every community across the country. From the courtroom to the classroom, from Congress to corporate America, HRC and the HRC Foundation build power through partnerships, storytelling, and action—working to create a future rooted in equity, freedom and belonging for all LGBTQ+ people. More at hrc.org
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In a time when the LGBTQ+ community is facing renewed attacks and discrimination, allyship matters more than ever. Showing visible support isn’t just meaningful, it helps create safe, welcoming spaces where people can truly feel they belong.
Stand with us. Stand proudly. Together, we can make a real difference.
June 20, 2026, 11am-6pm Part of WEHO PRIDE month Arts & Entertainment Admission is FREE
West Hollywood, CA (May 20, 2026) – Prism Comics, the nonprofit championing LGBTQIA+ diversity, equity and inclusion in comic books, graphic novels and popular media, is pleased to announce their 5th Annual Q Con, Southern California’s only LGBTQIA+ comic convention. Q Con is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ comic books, graphic novels, pop media, gaming and cosplay and is part of WEHO PRIDE 2026 month arts and entertainment lineup.
Q Con will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 11 am to 6 pm at
Q Con is free to the public and family-friendly, providing pre-teens through adults with the opportunity to find a wide variety of comics and graphic novels affirming LGBTQIA+ representation at one colorful, festive event. Guests can meet comics creators, get autographs, attend panels, show their cosplay pride in a safe, welcoming space and enter the very popular all-ages costume contest for fun and prizes. And new this year will be portfolio review by comics professionals for aspiring comics creators.
Prism is pleased to announce their Special Guests for Q Con 2026: Richard Fairgray (Four-Color Heroes); Maia Kobabe (Gender Queer, Opting Out); Lee Knox Ostertag (The Witch Boy series, Dungeons and Dragons: Dragon Club series); Joe Phillips (joephillips.com); ND Stevenson (Nimona, She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, Scarlet Morning); and Jen Wang (The Prince and The Dressmaker, Ash’s Cabin).
Over 100 creators and cosplayers will be appearing including A.C. Esguerra
(Eighty Days, The Prince); Ajuan Mance (Gender Studies; Living While Black: Portraits of Everyday Resistance); Andy Alves and Ben Crane (Cosmic Cadets, Systemic); Bree Williams (The Witch Wolf, Critical Role); Fanbase Press; Jim McCann (The Other/Half, Return of the Dapper Men); Jose Pimienta (Halfway To Somewhere. Luminous Beings); Josh Trujillo (Washington’s Gay General, Fantastic Four vs. Planet of the Apes); JP Karliak / Queer Vox; Kendra Wells (Real Hero Shit, Critical Role: Mighty Nein Origins); Knave Murdok (TransCat Comics); Lucky Srikumar (Opting Out); Rex Ogle aka Rey Terciero (Northranger, Dan of Green Gables); Sam Irvin (Director Elvira’s Haunted Hills, Author Captain Samouflage And The Frankensam Scam!); Sarah Gailey (Make Me Better, Spread Me); Shannon Watters (Lumberjanes, Hollow); Tannis Comix; Tara Madison Avery (We’re Still Here; publisher Stacked Deck Press); Tilly and Susan Bridges (Star Trek Voyager: Homecoming, Monster High); TOKYOPOP; and Qweerty Gamers.
The Q CON 2026 Programming and Portfolio Review schedules will be announced closer to the date of the event.
Q Con is supported in part by an arts grant from the City of West Hollywood. Q Con thanks the City of West Hollywood for their support – weho.org/arts @wehoarts.
Advanced tickets are recommended. Free tickets will also be available at the door on the day of the Con.
ABOUT PRISM COMICS: Prism Comics is a nonprofit championing LGBTQIA+ diversity, equity and inclusion in comic books, graphic novels and popular media. Founded in 2003, Prism Comics is “LGBTQ+ Comics Central” at San Diego Comic-Con, WonderCon Anaheim, Los Angeles Comic Con, and other conventions. Prism provides a safe, welcoming community for LGBTQIA+ and LGBTQIA+ friendly comics creators, readers, librarians, educators and families. Prism has helped foster many comics creators who have become major voices in comics and graphic novels. For more information, please visit prismcomics.org and @prismcomics.
WHAT: Q Con – The Only LGBTQIA+ Comic Book Convention in Southern California
LOS ANGELES, CA (APRIL 15, 2026) – The Los Angeles chapter of NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists is set to celebrate Southern California journalists and newsrooms at its second annual Press Pride Prom journalism awards gala on May 9, 2026, at the Los Angeles LGBT Center.
The ceremony will honor Greg Gordon and Lucia Chappelle of This Way Out Radio with the Troy Masters Legacy Award for Visionaries in Media. Presented in collaboration with the Los Angeles Blade, the award honors a journalist or news media professional whose work reflects a dedication to the craft of journalism. The award is named in honor of Troy Masters, veteran queer journalist and former publisher of the Los Angeles Blade. Chappelle will accept the award in person at the ceremony, as Gordon passed away earlier this year.
“For nearly 40 years, This Way Out Radio, which was founded here in Southern California, has diligently captured the stories of LGBTQ+ people from around the world,” said Hansen Bursic, President of the Los Angeles chapter of NLGJA, “Gordon and Chappelle’s work is the true embodyment of this award, and we are thrilled to honor them and their history-making outlet.”
This award is one of four being presented during the event. These awards honor Southern California-based journalists and newsrooms who did exceptional LGBTQ+ coverage in 2025. You can read about each award and the nominees below.
Press Pride Prom is a benefit for NLGJA LA’s LGBTQ+ youth journalism scholarship and is set to take place at the Los Angeles LGBT Center from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, May 9 in Hollywood. The event offers LGBTQ+ and other attendees the opportunity to relive their high school prom as their authentic selves.
The event’s principal sponsors include Award Sponsor ABC7, Step & Repeat Sponsors APLA Health and the Los Angeles LGBT Center, and Supporting Sponsor First Entertainment Credit Union. The event will be hosted by viral drag queen Ericka Qwerk, AKA Lauren Banall, and will feature food, drinks, live music, and more.
Early bird tickets are on sale now until Sunday, April 19. Tables and regular tickets will also be available to purchase through May 4, 2026, space permitting. You can learn more and get tickets here: https://lanlgja.betterworld.org/events/press-pride-prom-2026
You can read the complete list of nominees below. For more about newsrooms, and nominee bios and headshots, learn more and download here.
Troy Masters Legacy Award for Visionaries in Media Presented in collaboration with the Los Angeles Blade
Honorees: Greg Gordon and Lucia Chappelle, This Way Out Radio
This award honors a journalist or news media professional whose work reflects a dedication to the craft of journalism and a commitment to setting the stage for the next generation of LGBTQ+ industry leaders.
Excellence in LGBTQ+ Reporting Newsroom Award
This award honors a news outlet whose coverage of the queer and trans community is well-informed, complex, varied and intersectional, with a track record of promoting The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists’ mission to advance fair and accurate coverage of LGBTQ+ communities and issues.
NOMINEES:
LA Public Press
Q Voice News
ABC7
Queer Beat Award for Excellence in LGBTQ+ Reporting
This award honors a single story or series that demonstrates care, skill and a commitment to fair and accurate reporting of LGBTQ+ themes, issues and people.
Critiquing with Pride Award for Excellence in Arts & Entertainment Reporting Presented in collaboration with GALECA: The Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics
This award honors a Southern California-based arts & entertainment journalist whose body of work has helped foster important dialogue on LGBTQ+ representation in media and applies a nuanced, queer lens to film and television criticism.
NOMINEES:
Sa’iyda Shabazz
Megan Vick
Dana Han-Klein
For interviews with NLGJA LA organizers or any of the nominees, please contact LA@nlgja.org.
ABOUT NLGJA: THE ASSOCIATION OF LGBTQ+ JOURNALISTS
Founded in 1990, NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists is an organization of journalists, media professionals, educators and students working from within the news industry to foster fair and accurate coverage of LGBTQ+ issues. NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists opposes all forms of workplace bias and provides professional development to its members.
The Los Angeles chapter of NLGJA advocates for and bolsters the voices of LGBTQ+ community in the Southland while striving to foster community among LA’s queer and trans journalists, news media professionals, and creatives.
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Set your GPS. Scottsdale is just a quick drive away!
It’s hard to think of two words that evoke more excitement than “road trip!” Scottsdale answers the call with a sunny Sonoran Desert landscape that delivers fun and adventure at every turn.
If you’re craving rest and relaxation, sunrise hikes, luxe poolside cabanas and desert botanical-inspired spa treatments will ease you right into your happy place. Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at kayaking, mountain biking or horseback riding. And when the sun sets, head for Old Town where award-winning restaurants, wine-tasting rooms and endless shopping and art keeps the excitement going.
So, roll down the windows and crank up your playlist – now’s the perfect time for a road trip to Scottsdale!
Pride Guide® is honored to mark 20+ amazing years of connecting businesses, events and orgs with the LGBTQ+ community in 2026!
From small businesses to big brands, we offer tailored digital marketing solutions to fit almost any budget. Ready to shine? Click hereto become a Pride Guide® Partner today!
Show the world your commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive business or organization. Let’s make 2026 a year to remember – together!
This decision coincides with recent pollingfrom the HRC Foundation confirming that a super-majority of Americans favor marriage equality protections
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to grant certiorari in Davis v. Ermold, where former Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis hoped the Court would rehear a lower court’s decision awarding damages to a same-sex couple to whom she refused to issue a marriage license, despite a court ordering her to do so, in 2015. As part of her request Davis asked the Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark case that affirmed Constitutional marriage protections for same-sex couples. As a result, the lower court ruling stands, leaving Davis liable for refusing to abide by existing law and signaling that the Court is, for now, unwilling to revisit or reverse precedent that establishes marriage equality for the LGBTQ+ community. This ruling also underscores that public officials cannot evade accountability under the law by invoking anti-LGBTQ+ beliefs.
Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson released the following statement:
“Today, love won again. When public officials take an oath to serve their communities, that promise extends to everyone — including LGBTQ+ people. The Supreme Court made clear today that refusing to respect the constitutional rights of others does not come without consequences.
Thanks to the hard work of HRC and so many, marriage equality remains the law of the land through Obergefell v. Hodges and the Respect for Marriage Act. Even so, we must remain vigilant.
It’s no secret that there are many in power right now working to undermine our freedoms — including marriage equality — and attack the dignity of our community any chance they get. Last week, voters rejected the politics of fear, division, and hate, and chose leaders who believe in fairness, freedom, and the future. In race after race, the American people rejected anti-transgender attacks and made history electing pro-equality candidates up and down the ballot.
And from California to Virginia to New Jersey to New York City, LGBTQ+ voters and Equality Voters made the winning difference. We will never relent and will not stop fighting until all of us are free.”
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people, with 3.6 million members and supporters. The HRC Foundation (a 501(c)(3)) works to ensure LGBTQ+ people are safe, seen and supported where it matters most: at school, at work and in every community across the country. From the courtroom to the classroom, from Congress to corporate America, HRC and the HRC Foundation build power through partnerships, storytelling, and action—working to create a future rooted in equity, freedom and belonging for all LGBTQ+ people.
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As Federal Government and Many States Continue Legislative and Administrative Onslaught Against LGBTQ+ People, Violent Crimes Against Members of Community Remain Elevated
WASHINGTON — The latest annual crime report from the FBI highlights once again that while overall violent crime in the U.S. continues to decline, hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community remain alarmingly high.
In 2024, according to FBI data submitted by local jurisdictions, attacks based on a victim’s sexual orientation made up 17.2% of all hate crimes, and 4 percent were based on gender identity.
“The FBI’s 2024 hate crime data has revealed a national emergency hiding in plain sight. Everyone deserves to be safe in this country and have the chance to thrive. But anti-equality politicians continue to spread lies about LGBTQ+ people, trying to push us out of more and more corners of society,” said Kelley Robinson, Human Rights Campaign President. “Those smears come with a cost. The FBI has exposed a chilling reality: our community remains a target of violence — and that is unacceptable. LGBTQ+ people, just like everyone else, should be free to live our lives, pursue our careers and education, build our homes and pursue our American Dreams, without the threat of violence hanging over our heads. This FBI data is clear: we need more support from our political leaders, not animosity and attacks that seek to demonize us.”
The FBI’s report noted that there were 1,950 recorded incidents relating to an alleged victim’s sexual orientation in 2024 and 463 relating to an alleged victim’s gender identity. Race/ethnicity motivated hate crimes remained the largest category, making up 51.8% of all hate crimes. Hate crimes based on religion were second, just ahead of sexual orientation.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ+ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.
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SOAK THE UP SPIRIT OF TEMPE Summer is in full swing, and Tempe is buzzing with excitement. Catch a lakeside sunset or cool off with craft cocktails and global flavors. Whether you’re here for events, music, or memorable moments under the sun, Tempe’s vibrant energy is waiting to be explored.
California • June 2025
Is your business or organization a champion for diversity and inclusion?
In these turbulent times, the LGBTQ+ community faces a renewed wave of hate, discrimination, and political hostility. It’s more critical than ever to show unwavering support and solidarity. Becoming a visible ally is not just an act of kindness, it’s a profound declaration of hope and acceptance for those who feel marginalized, scared, and unseen. Your commitment can create the safe spaces we desperately need, where every individual can feel valued and protected, whether in your business, organization, or at events.
The power of allyship goes beyond words; it’s about action. By standing visibly with the LGBTQ+ community, you send a clear message: hate has no home here. Let’s work together to ensure everyone has a safe place to belong and thrive. Together, we can turn the tide and make a real difference.
Tickets On Sale Now for the 42nd Annual Long Beach Pride™ Festival, May 17–18, 2025
Long Beach, CA (April 22, 2025) — The countdown is on! Long Beach Pride™ is thrilled to announce that tickets are officially on sale for the 42nd Annual Long Beach Pride™ Festival, set to take place on May 17th and 18th, 2025. As the first major Pride event of the season, the Long Beach Pride™ Festival is ready to kick off a summer of love, unity, and celebration for the LGBTQ+ community.
This year’s theme, “The Power of Community,” reflects the strength, diversity, and resilience of the LGBTQ+ family in Long Beach and beyond. From vibrant live performances to immersive art, cultural showcases, and interactive zones, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable weekend for all.
While the City of Long Beach now leads the planning of the Pride Parade, the Long Beach Pride™ organization remains fully focused on delivering a dynamic and inclusive festival experience at the heart of the city’s celebration.
2025 Festival Highlights Include:
Music & Performance Line-Up
More names to come soon — stay tuned!
MegaWoof – DJs and GoGo Dancers bringing the heat to Stage 2
Mamboson – Beloved Latinx band returning for another crowd-rocking performance
Radio Royalty – 80s/90s live band featured on the Founders Stage
Secret Service Presents: The Takeover – Latinx/Dance/Hip-Hop extravaganza
Drag Show Extravaganza – Featuring America’s most dynamic Drag Queens from Jewels Productions
Ballroom Dance-Off – Vogue the house down with The House of Long Beach
Festival Zones & Experiences
Founders Stage – Live bands, drag, dance battles, and community energy
Hip Hop Stage – Featuring the best of local DJ talent
EDM Tent: The Fairies’ Dance Area – Electronic beats and glowing vibes by The Galactivators
Queer Country – DJ Rick, The Wranglers dance group and line dancing
Teen Pride – A safe affirming space for teens 17 and under to celebrate their fabulous self
TransVisibility – Highlighting the transgender community through art
Art & Culture – Immersive installations and cultural showcases
Food & Drink – Food trucks, picnic areas, and themed bar spaces presented by Broken Spirits
Health Hub – Free testing, wellness info, and community orgs including APAIt, Bienestar, APLA, and the Long Beach Health Department
Recovery & Support Spaces – On-site NA/AA meetings for guests in recovery
Craft & Info Booths – Nonprofits, local makers, and LGBTQ+ vendors
NBC4 and Telemundo 52 are proud to return as official media partners for the third year in a row. Audiences can tune in to special live coverage of the parade on NBCLA.com, Telemundo52.com, the NBCLA and Telemundo 52 mobile apps, or via the stations’ 24/7 local news streaming channels: NBC Los Angeles News and Telemundo Noticias California.
More exciting initiatives and performances will be unveiled in the coming weeks. Keep an eye out for updates — including the announcement of this year’s headliner — by visiting longbeachpride.com/festival or following Long Beach Pride™ on social media.
Media Inquiries, Press Pass Requests & Interview Opportunities:
About Long Beach Pride: Long Beach Pride™, a 501(c)(3) non-profit and all-volunteer organization, produces the annual three-day Long Beach Pride™ festival, parade, and Teen Pride. As the third largest Pride festival and parade in California, the organization celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with a strong focus on inclusion and works to educate the broader public on the importance of diversity in building a stronger, healthier society. Since its founding in 1984, Long Beach Pride™ has taken pride in its accomplishments and remains committed to teaching future generations that the fight for acceptance continues.
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Set your GPS for the ultimate getaway to Scottsdale.
It’s hard to think of two words that invoke more excitement than “road trip!” Scottsdale answers the call with a sunny Sonoran Desert landscape that delivers fun and adventure at every turn.
If you’re craving rest and relaxation, sunrise hikes, luxe poolside cabanas and desert botanical-inspired spa treatments will ease you right into your happy place. Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at kayaking, mountain biking or horseback riding. And when the sun sets, head for Old Town where top-shelf restaurants, wine-tasting rooms and nightclubs keep the excitement going well into the night.
So, roll down the windows and crank up your playlist – now’s the perfect time for a road trip to Scottsdale!
Prepare to celebrate with us! Pride Guide® is thrilled to mark 20 amazing years of advocating for the LGBTQ+ community in 2025!
From small businesses to big brands, we offer tailored digital marketing solutions to fit almost any budget. Ready to shine? Click hereto become a Pride Guide® Partner today!
Show the world your commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive business or organization. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember – together!
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to grant certiorari in Davis v. Ermold, where former Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis hoped the Court would rehear a lower court’s decision awarding damages to a same-sex couple to whom she refused to issue a marriage license, despite a court ordering her to do so, in 2015. As part of her request Davis asked the Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark case that affirmed Constitutional marriage protections for same-sex couples. As a result, the lower court ruling stands, leaving Davis liable for refusing to abide by existing law and signaling that the Court is, for now, unwilling to revisit or reverse precedent that establishes marriage equality for the LGBTQ+ community. This ruling also underscores that public officials cannot evade accountability under the law by invoking anti-LGBTQ+ beliefs. 
