WASHINGTON STATE – New research from Washington State University (WSU) is shedding light on significant disparities faced by the state’s LGBTQ+ community.
Nearly 7,000 Washingtonians participated in the statewide survey. About one-third of the respondents live in King County, while over 20 percent are from rural areas.
The study was led by WSU’s Traci Gillig and the state’s LGBTQ+ Commission. It revealed significant challenges in healthcare and mental health for this community.
According to the study, nearly 27 percent of participants considered suicide in the past year. Additionally, 31 percent encountered barriers to healthcare access. Furthermore, 22 percent reported experiencing a hate crime.
The commission expressed hope that this research marks the beginning of a long-term effort to better understand and support LGBTQ+ residents across Washington.
