71% of LGBTQ youth in Pennsylvania reported experiencing discrimination due to either their sexual orientation or gender identity
May 2, 2023 — The Trevor Project, the leading suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ young people, announced its support for HB 300, a bill that would expand nondiscrimination protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity, passed by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives with bipartisan support.
“As we witness a historic wave of anti-LGBTQ bills being considered across the country, it gives us hope to see bills like this one make movement to advance anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ Pennsylvanians,” said Troy Stevenson (he/him), Director of State Advocacy Campaigns for The Trevor Project. “No person should be denied housing, refused business, or prohibited from public spaces because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We are grateful for our partners on the ground all across the state who have worked tirelessly to protect LGBTQ people from discrimination. We urge legislators to pass this legislation into law, and ensure that all people in Pennsylvania have the chance to live their lives without fear of discrimination.”
According to The Trevor Project’s 2022 U.S. National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health by State, 71% of LGBTQ youth in Pennsylvania reported experiencing discrimination due to either their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Trevor’s 2023 U.S. National Survey found that LGBTQ youth who experienced anti-LGBTQ victimization – including discrimination – attempted suicide at more than twice the rate of those who did not in the past year. However, LGBTQ youth who had access to affirming homes, schools, community events, and online spaces reported lower rates of attempting suicide in the past year compared to those who did not.
If you or someone you know needs help or support, The Trevor Project’s crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386, via chat at TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting 678678.