Hate Crimes on the Rise Against LGBTQ+ Community in the U.S., FBI Reports

Recent FBI data shows a disturbing increase in hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ+ community in the United States, leading to rising concerns among advocates. The statistics reveal a clear rise in incidents driven by bias related to sexual orientation and gender identity from 2022 to 2023.

LGBTQ+ organizations have voiced their alarm, with Brian K. Bond, CEO of PFLAG National, stating, “This data serves as a reminder that the LGBTQ+ community still faces significant dangers. It’s vital that our laws and communities become more inclusive to ensure safety for everyone.”

Despite an overall drop in violent crimes by 3% during the same period, hate crimes saw an upward trend. Bias-motivated incidents based on sexual orientation and gender identity were third and fourth in frequency, after race and religion.

In 2023 alone, 2,936 such incidents were reported, marking an 8.6% rise compared to the previous year. This includes a substantial increase in hate crimes targeting individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. LGBTQ+ civil rights leaders, like Kelley Robinson from the Human Rights Campaign, emphasize that every person should be free from fear due to their identity or who they love.

The ongoing wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rhetoric is seen as contributing to this environment. The American Civil Liberties Union has tracked over 530 such bills this year, with many restricting LGBTQ+ rights, especially for transgender individuals. Although many have been defeated, their presence creates a hostile climate.

LGBTQ+ advocates stress the importance of challenging harmful narratives and uplifting the voices of those affected.