Fact Check: "Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals can lead to increased violence."
What We Know
Research has consistently shown that discrimination against LGBTQ individuals correlates with increased rates of violence against them. A comprehensive study conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic involving 7,758 LGBTQ+ individuals across 79 countries found that many respondents reported experiencing increased discrimination and violence from government representatives and healthcare providers due to their sexual orientation or gender identity (Adamson et al., 2022). Specifically, identifying as gay or queer was associated with higher odds of experiencing discrimination, with odds ratios indicating significant increases in reported discrimination from authorities (Adamson et al., 2022).
In the United States, data from the National Crime Victimization Survey revealed that LGBTQ individuals are nine times more likely to experience violent hate crimes compared to their non-LGBT counterparts (Williams Institute, 2025). The survey indicated that LGBT individuals experienced 106.4 violent victimizations per 1,000 persons, starkly contrasting with the rate of 21.1 for non-LGBT individuals (Williams Institute, 2023). This disparity highlights the heightened vulnerability of LGBTQ individuals to violence, particularly in environments where anti-LGBT sentiments are prevalent.
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that discrimination against LGBTQ individuals leads to increased violence is robust. The study by Adamson et al. provides empirical data demonstrating that systemic discrimination from authorities can exacerbate violence against LGBTQ individuals (Adamson et al., 2022). This aligns with broader trends observed in various contexts, where hostile environments fostered by discriminatory policies and rhetoric can lead to increased hate crimes.
Moreover, the Williams Institute's analysis of victimization rates underscores the severity of violence faced by LGBTQ individuals, particularly transgender individuals who experience victimization at even higher rates (Williams Institute, 2023). The data indicates that societal attitudes and legislative actions can create an atmosphere where violence against LGBTQ individuals is not only more likely but also more socially tolerated.
Critically, the sources used in this analysis are reputable and based on rigorous research methodologies. The studies cited are peer-reviewed and published in recognized academic journals, lending credibility to their findings. Additionally, the Williams Institute is a well-respected research organization focused on LGBTQ issues, further reinforcing the reliability of their data (Williams Institute, 2025).
Conclusion
The claim that discrimination against LGBTQ individuals can lead to increased violence is True. The evidence presented from multiple studies indicates a clear correlation between systemic discrimination and heightened vulnerability to violence among LGBTQ individuals. This relationship is supported by statistical data and qualitative research, demonstrating that discriminatory practices and societal attitudes significantly impact the safety and well-being of LGBTQ communities.
Sources
- Experiences of violence and discrimination among LGBTQ+ individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic: a global cross-sectional analysis
- Anti-LGBT Victimization in the United States - Williams Institute
- LGBT people five times more likely than non-LGBT people to experience violent crime
- Victimization and Help-Seeking Experiences of LGBTQ+ Individuals
- New FBI Data: Anti-LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes Continue to Spike
