There were 932 anti-LGBTQ incidents across the United States over the past year, ranging from hate speech to bomb threats and even fatal violence. More than half of these acts targeted transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals, as revealed by a recent report from the LGBTQ advocacy group GLAAD. The report highlighted a concerning year-over-year increase in incidents directed at these marginalized groups, as well as state and local governments, educators, and librarians. Conversely, there was a decrease in incidents targeting drag performers and pride symbols, indicating a shift in the focus of hate groups.
Sarah Moore, an analyst at GLAAD specializing in anti-LGBTQ extremism, emphasized the evolving nature of hate crimes, noting that extremists tend to align their actions with current events and trends. This report marks the third annual publication based on GLAAD’s Anti-LGBTQ Extremism Reporting Tracker, with incidents tracked between May 1, 2024, and May 1, 2025. The 932 documented incidents represent a 20% decrease from the previous year but signify an 80% increase compared to the inaugural report in 2023.
GLAAD defines anti-LGBTQ incidents as both criminal and noncriminal acts driven by hate and extremism, including harassment, threats, vandalism, and assault. While the reported incidents provide a snapshot of the LGBTQ community’s experiences, Moore stresses that they likely represent only a fraction of the actual hate crimes occurring nationwide. She highlights the drag community’s resilience, evidenced by the significant drop in incidents targeting drag performers, contrasting with the rise in attacks on local and state governments, educators, and librarians.
Notably, the report reveals a pattern of heightened anti-LGBTQ incidents during June, coinciding with Pride Month. Moore attributes this spike to the increased visibility of LGBTQ events and celebrations during this period. As Pride Month approaches, with notable events like WorldPride in D.C., GLAAD emphasizes the community’s strength and historical resilience in the face of adversity. Pride, rooted in a legacy of protest and resistance, represents a refusal to be silenced or marginalized, echoing the spirit of the inaugural Pride marches that emerged from the Stonewall uprising in 1969.
Brooke Sopelsa, the editorial director of NBC Out, highlights the enduring significance of Pride as a form of defiance against discrimination and a celebration of LGBTQ identity and resilience. As the LGBTQ community continues to navigate challenges and confront hate, the message of unity, visibility, and empowerment remains central to fostering a more inclusive and accepting society.
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