Invisible People: Why transgender individuals face higher risks of homelessness and how discrimination contributes to the growing crisis
A growing number of gender nonconforming and transgender people are experiencing homelessness in the U.S., a trend that seems baffling because public polling indicates LGBTQ+ individuals are more socially accepted than ever before.
Over the last three years, federal data shows the number of gender nonconforming and transgender people experiencing homelessness has grown from roughly 4,500 to more than 7,800. These individuals are more than twice as likely to experience unsheltered homelessness compared to cisgender youths.
These individuals are also more likely to be victimized than other people experiencing homelessness. Last year, the Human Rights Campaign found at least 32 transgender people were killed, 80% of whom were people of color.
“Living on the streets and being forced to engage in risky survival behaviors elevates the risk of violence and victimization among this extraordinarily vulnerable group,” the National Alliance to End Homelessness said in a policy brief.
Read full article: Understanding the link between gender identity and homelessness
Photo from Invisible People