LGBTQ Victory Institute & Loyola Marymount University have published a new report summarizing the results of a nationwide survey of LGBTQ women political candidates. The “Experiences of LGBTQ Women Candidates: A Report from the When We Run Survey” found that 1 in 4 LGBTQ women were discouraged to run because of their gender or gender identity which is 4 times higher than gay & bisexual men. LGBTQ women also worry about harassment or attacks before running in higher proportions than gay & bisexual male candidates with 4 in 10 LGBTQ women facing attacks based on their appearance or the way they dress. LGBTQ women also faced media challenging their qualifications to a larger degree than men. Annise Parker, president & CEO of LGBTQ+ Victory Institute stated, “LGBTQ+ women are woefully underrepresented in public office & the results of our survey shed light on why that is. The data is clear: compared to LGBTQ+ men candidates, LGBTQ+ women candidates are more likely to be discouraged from running for office based on their gender, are more likely to be attacked for their appearance & face greater media bias. Despite the obstacles, LGBTQ+ women must continue to claim their seat at the table by running for office. It’s on all of us to help level the playing field for LGBTQ+ women candidates by recruiting & supporting them, calling out media bias & holding bigots accountable.” The report was written by Elliot Imse, executive director of LGBTQ+ Victory Institute & Gabriele Magni, assistant professor of political science at Loyola Marymount University.
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