LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia marks the 1990 decision by the World Health Organization to remove homosexuality from the list of mental disorders and since then the decision has been commemorated annually in many countries.
The fight for equality for the LGBTQ community has been long, and while there have been advancements, there is still a ways to go.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the community is facing different challenges.
Trevor Harder, executive director of the Henderson Equality Center, says with families constatntly together during this pandemic, it could be a difficult situation for younger LGBTQ people.
“Some people that are still feeling that hate or that unease being around people at home or their family members and neighbors. Some have parents that constantly misgender them or have parents who are like 'no, you’re a boy, you’re always going to be a boy, you’re not transgender.' So, there are still some people that need education about issues with LGBT”, expressed Harder.
While acceptance has grown in the valley, COVID-19 has also been a reminder of pressing needs for this community, like the improvement in healthcare and making sure people don’t feel isolated.
The LGBTQ Center for Southern Nevada sent a statement saying “the quarantine has forced us to focus inward on our community. As we look to a measured and controlled re-opening, we wait in great anticipation for the return of our community outreach programs that will always fight against homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, bullying, hate, and crimes against our community”.
Both centers have several programs and options for members of the LGBTQ community in case they need help or would like to talk with someone.
