For the longest time, the LGBTQ+ community has endured discrimination and inequality all across the world.
But people shouldn’t have to suffer for loving who they love.
According to the University of California Los Angeles, the LGBTQ+ community is at least four times more inclined to be victims of violent hate crimes than non-LGBTQ+ individuals.
Hate crimes range from cyberbullying, physical assault, sexual assault, rape and even murder.
Although Croatia has been known to support the LGBTQ+ community, on July 4 during one of the oldest pride marches, the Zagreb Pride, marchers were assaulted and one person was even lit on fire.
During that same week, LGBTQ+ campaigners canceled the March for Dignity pride event in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, after violent protesters stormed and ransacked their offices before the march began.
In 2021, more than 250 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced in state legislatures in the United States—including states such as Arkansas, Montana and Texas.
Some bills make it difficult for the LGBTQ+ community to participate in sports, update birth certificates or discuss struggles they face in the classroom.
However, these issues need to be spoken about so the next generation doesn’t grow up believing that it’s okay to treat people badly when someone disagrees with how you live your life.
Everyone is entitled to their opinions, whether religious or not, but no life should be endangered or taken away because they simply want to be happy.
