New HRC Data: Despite Political Headwinds, LGBTQ+ People Are Choosing Visibility Ahead of 2026 Midterms

The Stakes Are Highest for Transgender People

70% of transgender and gender-expansive adults say the current political climate makes them less likely to be open about who they are. At the same time, 78% of LGBTQ+ adults believe acceptance for transgender and nonbinary people has declined over the past two years. Concern reaches beyond the transgender community too: 45% say they feel acceptance of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people has declined.

Building Community in the Open

LGBTQ+ people are still showing up for each other. 65% feel connected to the broader community. In the past year, 55% visited an LGBTQ+ bar, cafe, bookstore or community center, and 49% attended Pride or another large community event. That spirit runs deep. National Coming Out Day was founded in 1988 on the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, when hundreds of thousands showed up for each other and for their rights. Coming out has been political from the start. Artist Keith Haring created the day's iconic artwork, and HRC has carried the legacy forward through leading the observance nationally for decades.

Come Out to Vote: Make a Plan, Bring Your Community

12% of U.S. adults now identify as LGBTQ+. 40 of 50 states have an LGBTQ+ population greater than 10%. Together with our families and allies, equality voters can decide elections. HRC urges everyone to:

• Check their voter registration status today;
• Make a plan to vote early, by mail or on Election Day;
• Bring two or three friends to the polls.