Deciding which state to live and where to start your life in the U.S. is an important question for every new immigrant. For LGBTQ immigrants, this question may feel even more complex. Navigating safety concerns, gaining access to comprehensive healthcare, and ensuring a welcoming environment are likely all top of mind when choosing a new place to call home. Below is a list of U.S. states which rank highly for LGBTQ rights:
1. California & Vermont
Safety Index Score: 100
Positives for California:
✓Provides protections to an LGBTQ family and more adoption opportunities
✓Labor protection for LGBTQ individuals
Negative for California:
✗ Higher average for hate crimes
Positives for Vermont:
✓Labor protection for LGBTQ individuals
✓Comprehensive LGBTQ healthcare
Negative for Vermont:
✗ Higher average for hate crimes
2. Maryland
Safety Index Score: 97
Positives for Maryland:
✓Lower average for Hate Crimes
✓Anti-discrimination in Maryland schools
Negative for Maryland:
✗ Lack of comprehensive LGBTQ healthcare for trans people
3. Washington
Safety Index Score: 94
Positives for Washington:
✓LGBTQ public accommodations
✓Anti-discrimination in Washington schools
Negative for Washington:
✗ Lack of alternative protections for couples not married
4. Illinois & Oregon
Safety Index Score: 92
Positives for Illinois:
✓Lower average for hate crimes
✓Labor protection for LGBTQ individuals
Negative for Illinois:
✗ Lack of comprehensive LGBTQ healthcare for trans people
Positives for Oregon:
✓LGBTQ public accommodations
✓Labor protection for LGBTQ individuals
Negative for Oregon:
✗ Higher average for hate crimes