The Information Gap

Qualitatively, it is redundant to observe LGBTQ people have lived experiences that are distinctive from their het/cis peers. But, few generalizable studies or government statistics provide a quantitative view into how: i.e., unique demographics and well-being data for LGBT communities in the U.S., and worldwide.

The World Bank reports that “gaps in research and data on LGBTI experiences persist in every country, blocking progress toward inclusion and the realization of human rights for all.”

The report authors note several areas important for additional statistical study:

• Accurate size estimates of the LGBTQ population and measures of public opinion about LGBTQ people.
• Links between LGBTQ inclusion and macroeconomic dev., -and-
• Understanding the multiple identities LGBTQ people hold (e.g., race, ethnicity, religion, age).

In the United States

In the U.S., for one, disambiguated data collection about LGBTQ Americans in government data—e.g., in the U.S. Census, the American Community Survey, and the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Household Economics and Decisionmaking—is needed to create an understanding of LGBTQ demographics and well-being.

“There is, no doubt, prejudice against LGBT applicants [in lending]. But there’s not a lot of data to show how much.” – Mark Fogarty, American Banker

Additionally, nondiscrimination enforcement shall require data collection akin to present fair lending data-collection requirements in mortgages, small business lending, for other frequently under-served minority groups classes. According to Mark Fogarty at the American Banker, “There is, no doubt, prejudice against LGBT applicants. But there’s not a lot of data to show how much.”-American Banker