John, As we navigate these challenging and uncertain times, what we do know with confidence is that we will pull through this by pulling together. As the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) increases, many LGBTQ people and allies are understandably concerned about how this virus may affect us and our communities. We can take comfort by remembering that our families and neighborhoods are stronger when we come together in moments of joy and celebration, as well as in times of crisis. This is certainly true now more than ever as LGBTQ communities are among those who are particularly vulnerable to the negative health effects of this virus due to several factors: - The LGBTQ population uses tobacco at rates that are 50% higher than the general population. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that has proven particularly harmful to smokers.
- The LGBTQ population has higher rates of HIV and cancer, which means a greater number of us may have compromised immune systems, leaving us more vulnerable to COVID-19 infections.
- LGBTQ people continue to experience discrimination, unwelcoming attitudes, and lack of understanding from providers and staff in many health care settings, and as a result, many are reluctant to seek medical care except in situations that feel urgent – and perhaps not even then.
In addition, there are more than 3 million LGBTQ elders living in the United States, and they are already less likely to reach out to health and aging providers, like senior centers, meal programs, and other programs designed to ensure their health and wellness, because they fear discrimination and harassment. The devastating impact of COVID-19 on elders makes this a huge issue for the LGBTQ community, and a stark reminder that we are all better off when we are all healthy -- especially the most vulnerable among us. We believe that the antidote to fear is not despondency or self-isolation, not anger or blame, but rather love and connection, shared purpose and collective action. By standing together and ensuring that each and every LGBTQ Virginian has the resources and information they need, we can and will prevail through this time. To that end, we have created a COVID-19 Resource Hub that lists a range of online resources including information about healthcare, employment, mutual aid, and food access. While we have not worked with or vetted each organization, effort, or campaign listed, we are excited to promote resources and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ people. We recommend that you do your own research before providing any organization with your personal information or resources. We look forward to adding more and more information to the Resource Hub as we become aware of additional services available to the LGBTQ community across Virginia. To do that, we need your help to build this list, and we ask that you let us know about other resources in your area by completing this form. Our own health depends on the health of the person next to us, and the person next to them. Whether it’s people with chronic health conditions or people without shelter, people providing vital services or those who can’t forgo a paycheck to stay home, we must ensure all LGBTQ individuals and their families can access the care and support they need. While the full impact of the COVID-19 outbreak may not be felt for many months, now is the time to stand with and for each other as LGBTQ Virginians and allies. Yours in solidarity, Vee Lamneck
Executive Director |
