February 19, 2016
Frankly, most of the time, I tend to stay mum in social media because that is what I usually do when certain issues come up that can spark uproars from other people or a community. I do not react negatively against the source. I talk to my friends about it, exchange opinions about the topic […]
October 20, 2015
Not every town is a great fit for LGBT residents, but some cities go above and beyond by encouraging acceptance and cultural development. Ready to make a move? Here are five of the most LGBT friendly cities in the U.S.
San Francisco has the largest percentage of LGBT residents of any U.S. city, with 6.2 percent of residents identifying as LGBT. This city is no stranger to welcoming LGBT visitors or residents, since its Castro District was one of the first LGBT neighborhoods to spring up in the U.S. The Castro is still the cultural center of the community and even has an LGBT walk of fame. You’ll find tons of LGBT events on just about every weekend in the Bay Area, but you definitely won’t want to miss the annual San Francisco Pride Celebration & Parade each June. With a legendary parade and endless after parties, this is an event to mark on your calendar each year.
It’s hard to believe that not every state has non-discrimination legislation to protect residents based on sexual orientation. Oregon is one of the dozen or so states that does have legislation in place, which makes Portland an even more welcoming place to live. This city also hosts events year-round to celebrate LGBT residents and visitors. Don’t miss the cocktail competition at THIRST Fest in February, the LGBT film festival QDoc in May, or the Portland Queer Music Festival in August.
Texas may be a relative newcomer to same-sex marriage legislation, but Austin has long been an LGBT friendly city. With over 5 percent of Austinites identifying as LGBT, this Texas city is one of the best places to live for LGBT residents. Just about every group in Austin has an LGBT group, including sports leagues. The city also hosts plenty of events celebrating the community. Mark your calendar for the Austin Gay & Lesbian International Film Festival in September and an entire week of pride-related events in June.
Health care can prove challenging for LGBT residents, but the Human Rights Campaign highlights Providence as one of the most accommodating cities. Providence is also home to several civil rights organizations that help move LGBT equality forward in the city, including the ACLU of Rhode Island and PrideRI. If that wasn’t fabulous enough, check out Providence’s drag queen Glambassador Haley Star, a central figure in the city’s tourism industry. In June, don’t miss the annual RI PrideFest or the famous night parade.
The Midwest might not host the largest LGBT population in the nation, but that could soon change. Des Moines has made major strides to welcome LGBT residents, especially with its large number of state and national politicians who identify as LGBT. Whether you’re a Des Moines resident or just passing through, be sure to catch Capital City Pride in June and a performance by the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus year-round.
No matter which coast you want to call home, there’s an LGBT friendly city that’s ready to welcome you with an accepting culture and tons of fun events.
