Hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ+ community in the U.S. saw a dramatic increase in 2023, according to the FBI’s latest annual Crime in the Nation report. With over 2,400 incidents related to sexual orientation reported, this marks a troubling rise from 1,947 cases in 2022. The numbers, coupled with growing political rhetoric against LGBTQ+ individuals, paint a grim picture for a community already on edge.
More Than 500 Anti-Trans Incidents Reported
One of the most disturbing aspects of the report is the surge in anti-transgender violence. In 2023, the FBI recorded 547 incidents related to gender identity, a jump from 515 in the previous year. These incidents primarily targeted transgender women, particularly Black trans women, a demographic that has long faced disproportionate levels of violence.
“Today’s abysmal FBI report highlights that it is still dangerous to be LGBTQ+ in this country,” said Brian Bond, CEO of PFLAG National, in response to the report’s findings.
Bond emphasized the need for collective action, stating, “Our LGBTQ+ loved ones need both our compassion and our action to make our communities safe and our laws inclusive.”
LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes Now Rank Among Top Bias-Related Offenses
For the second year in a row, hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation and gender identity make up more than 20% of all bias-related offenses in the United States. These crimes follow only those based on race, ethnicity, and religion, underscoring the dangerous climate for LGBTQ+ individuals across the nation. Despite calls for federal and state protections, LGBTQ+ advocates are sounding the alarm as anti-LGBTQ+ legislation continues to sweep through state legislatures.
“It’s time we build an America where LGBTQ+ folks don’t just survive, they thrive—in every town, every state, every corner of this nation,” said Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign.
Call for Urgent Action
As violence and hate crimes spike, LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations are pushing for stronger non-discrimination protections and better law enforcement response. The FBI’s report comes at a critical time, with 2023 also witnessing the introduction of over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills in state legislatures across the country. Advocates argue that these laws fuel anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments and embolden individuals to commit violent acts against members of the community.
The rise in hate crimes has led to widespread concern, particularly with the Human Rights Campaign declaring a state of emergency for LGBTQ+ individuals in 2023—the first time in its history that the organization has taken such a step.
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This article was first published on Pulse of Pride.
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
