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by Madeleine Roberts •
While some states have initiated policies to reopen their economies, LGBTQ people are still more likely to be experiencing adverse employment outcomes and are more likely to be returning to work for less pay
Today, as the federal government is releasing its unemployment numbers, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation released new data outlining how the first phases of reopening have mostly failed to mend the devastating economic impact of COVID-19 on the LGBTQ community while giving rise to new economic problems. Released in partnership with PSB Insights, the research builds on prior reports showing the negative economic impact of the pandemic on LGBTQ people, especially LGBTQ people of color, transgender and LGBTQ people of color and Black LGBTQ people. While some states are reopening their economies, many states are pausing and reversing their policies because of the ongoing threat of the coronavirus. Even as some states begin initial phases of reopening, however, LGBTQ people are still more likely than the general population to be experiencing higher unemployment rates, are more likely to report having their work hours reduced and, for those who are returning to work, are more likely to be working for less pay.
Even as LGBTQ people continue to suffer the disproportionate negative economic impacts of COVID-19, a new issue is arising. LGBTQ people are more likely to be taking pay cuts now in the first phases of reopening compared to when the nation was on lockdown. As the nation is trying to recover from the national economic fallout of the pandemic, LGBTQ people are being forced to take pay cuts and continue to take unpaid leave in order to maintain their financial livelihoods.
The data also show that:
The new data and resource build on HRC’s previously released reports, “The Lives and Livelihoods of Many in the LGBTQ Community are at Risk Amidst COVID-19 Crisis” and “The Economic Impact of COVID-19 on the LGBTQ Community,” published in March and April. In June, HRC released “The Impact of COVID-19 on LGBTQ Communities of Color,” which documented the heightened risk of LGBTQ people of color in facing negative economic consequences from the pandemic, and “The Economic Impact of COVID-19 Intensifies for Transgender and LGBTQ Communities of Color,” which showed that transgender people, especially transgender people of color, are more likely to face negative economic consequences as a result of the virus. Last month, HRC released “The Economic Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTQ People,” which showed Black LGBTQ people disproportionately suffer the adverse economic impact of COVID-19.
HRC has also partnered with the Black Trans Advocacy Coalition on a resource, “Finding Financial Stability During Turbulent Times,” with steps and advice for those who may be struggling to make ends meet during these difficult times.
Read more about HRC’s efforts during COVID-19 here.
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