Least gay-friendly states

A strong global movement has improved respect for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender LGBT people around the world. However, at least 67 countries have national laws criminalizing same-sex relations between consenting adults. In addition, at least nine countries have national laws criminalizing forms of gender expression that target transgender and gender nonconforming people. This series of maps provides a global overview of those laws.

By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. The hubs and duds of queer life in modern America have been revealed, thanks to a report from the Williams Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles. The good news: wherever you are, you're not alone. Overall,

Each year for the last six, gay advocacy group Out Leadership has produced an index gauging the business climate for gay and transgender people state by state, mapping out where they can live and work with the least discrimination and hardship. New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts remained at the top of the Out Leadership index in while Arkansas received the lowest score since the index began. The average score across all 50 states was The growing polarization as GOP strategists and lawmakers pursue conservative social policies in legislatures across the country worries Sears.

Mike Fant. Massachusetts also became the first state to support transgender protections. New York law prohibits exclusions for transgender care under both private health insurance and Medicaid. In July , Connecticut became the first state to legally ensure all individuals are treated consistent with their gender identity in prison.