Informational Panel: Issues Facing the LGBT+ Communities in the Pandemic

Description

Hosted by Tiff Bluemle, Kesha Ram & Taylor Small

Featuring Panelists:
Mike Bensel & Reggie Condra, Pride Center of Vermont
HB Lozito, Out in the Open
Dana Kaplan & Nathan DeGroot, Outright Vermont

According to the Human Rights Campaign, LGBT Americans are more likely to face mental and physical health complications from COVID-19 than the general population. This is for a variety of reasons, including that nearly 1 in 5 LGBT Americans are living in poverty, and are much less likely to have health insurance or access to paid medical leave and other necessities. Additionally, around 40 percent of LGBT adults work in industries like health care, food service, education, and retail, that are acutely impacted by this crisis. This is around twice the rate of non-LGBT Americans working in these affected industries.

This panel provides more detailed information in regards to how the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately affecting the emotional and physical well-being of the queer community. Additionally, we discuss appropriate resources for individuals in need of aid and community support. We also address how allies, loved ones, and concerned community members can assist LGBT+ Vermonters during this difficult time.