The LGBTQ community has come a long way, but let’s be real — there’s still a lot of work to do. Every day, many of us still deal with barriers that make life harder than it should be. If you’ve ever wondered how you can help, you’re not alone — and the good news is, there’s a place for everyone to get involved.
Here’s a look at 10 of the biggest challenges I believe we’re facing right now, and some real ways you can make a difference:
1. Discrimination in Jobs and Housing
It’s 2025, and yet LGBTQ people still get fired or denied apartments just for who they are. Back companies with real inclusion policies, support fair housing laws, and call out discrimination when you see it.
2. Mental Health Struggles
Stigma, rejection, isolation — it’s no wonder our community faces higher rates of anxiety, depression, and even suicide. Share mental health resources, normalize therapy, donate to LGBTQ mental health programs, and just be there for people.
3. Healthcare That Doesn't Get Us
Finding a doctor who gets LGBTQ issues shouldn’t be a scavenger hunt, but here we are. Spread the word about LGBTQ-friendly doctors, push for better training in healthcare schools, and demand respectful care.
4. Homelessness Among LGBTQ Youth
Way too many queer kids get kicked out of their homes and end up on the streets. Support shelters that are LGBTQ-friendly, advocate for better foster care, and volunteer if you can.
5. Violence and Hate Crimes
LGBTQ people, especially folks of color, are still being targeted and attacked. Push for real hate crime laws, show up at rallies, and help fund groups that protect our communities.
6. Isolation Among LGBTQ Seniors
Many older queer folks are alone, facing discrimination in places like nursing homes. Volunteer with LGBTQ senior programs, push for inclusive elder care, and take time to check in on elders in your life.
7. Being Erased from History and Schools
Our stories are powerful, but too often, they’re left out of textbooks and classrooms. Advocate for inclusive education, donate queer books to libraries, and make sure our stories are told.
8. Intersectional Discrimination
Being LGBTQ and a person of color, an immigrant, or part of another marginalized group? You’re facing even more hurdles. Listen to and center the voices of those who live at these intersections, and challenge bias — even inside LGBTQ spaces.
9. Stereotypes and Misrepresentation in Media
We deserve to see real, authentic versions of ourselves — not tired clichés. Support queer artists, call out harmful portrayals, and demand better representation.
10. Global Human Rights Issues
In many parts of the world, being LGBTQ is still punishable by jail — or worse. Support international LGBTQ groups, lobby your representatives to take action, and raise awareness whenever you can.
Bobby Blair is a LGBTQ media pioneer and leader known for his philanthropic work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. A Florida native, he lives in Fort Lauderdale with his longtime partner, Brian Neal. Blair was inducted into the GLBT Hall of Fame in 2015.
