One Nation, One Family
DURING THIS TIME,
WE NEED EACH OTHER.
A core part of Diné Pride's mission is to work for the safety and wellness of our Indigenous LGBTQIA family members in Indian Country. For this reason, we will do our best to serve the LGBTQ+ community throughout this crisis by connecting people to the resources and support they need.
The novel coronavirus and the disease it causes, COVID-19, has proven to be detrimental to our Sovereign Nations. Our LGBTQ+ relatives are at increased risk for this virus because such a high percentage of Native LGBTQ+ communities are immune-compromised due to a lack of access to basic healthcare, life necessities, and health insurance.
We have launched the #StrongTogether Campaign with the goal of providing our Indiegnious LGBTQ+ relatives with specific information on COVID-19, opportunities to connect through virtual networking events, and much more. Our duty as an LGBTQ+ serving organization is to step up to support our most vulnerable.
The LGBTQ+ community may be vulnerable to the coronavirus pandemic.
Here's why.
-
LGBTQ+ people smoke at rates 50% higher than the general population, which could be detrimental if a respiratory illness like COVID-19 is contracted.
-
Higher rates of HIV and cancer in the LGBTQ+ community means that a greater number of people may have compromised immune systems, which leaves them more vulnerable to COVID-19 infections.
-
Health care discrimination in America, including denial of care, unwelcoming attitudes and lack of understanding from staff and providers means LGBTQ+ people may be more reluctant to seek medical care.
LGBTQ+ Information to Fight COVID-19
3 reasons COVID-19 poses a Higher Risk to the LGBTQ+ Population
And how the novel coronavirus is (or isn’t) altering the lives of health care providers, drag queens, and Grindr users.
The LGBTQ+ population may be at increased risk for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus. To get the word out, over 100 national and local organizations have signed an open letter initiated by a coalition of six organizations.
The letter spells out the main reasons for the heightened concerns. It also lists 10 ways those involved with the COVID-19 response - including health officials and the media - can ensure that LGBTQ+ people are treated properly during this pandemic.
What People With HIV Need to Know About the Coronavirus
New research is emerging about how the respiratory virus spreads and how people can protect themselves and others.
A month after the new coronavirus respiratory disease known as COVID-19 came to public attention, researchers and public health officials are continuing to learn about its spread, its mortality rate and who is most likely to become seriously ill.
Although much remains unknown, it’s clear that older people, those with other health conditions and people with compromised immune systems have a higher likelihood of severe illness. This may include people living with HIV, especially those with low CD4 counts. But taking some basic precautions can lower your risk and improve your well-being.
Supporting and Caring for our LGBTQ Elders During COVID-19
LGBTQ+ older adults are particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 health crisis and helps to ensure they are getting the care they need.
LGBTQ+ elders are particularly vulnerable to the health risks of COVID-19 and are concerned about discrimination, in both in-home and residential care settings (60%) and with their health care provider (40%). LGBTQ+ older adults also face greater risks from social isolation -- a necessary public health effort during COVID-19 -- that can have a direct impact on their health and well-being.
