Pride and protests: a mixed-methods examination of LGBTQ + activism and well-being

AbstractBackground. LGBTQ+ activism may provide sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) with psychological benefits, buffering minority stressors. Method. In the current study, SGM adults (N = 527) completed a mixed-methods survey, assessing participation in LGBTQ+ activism and associated outcomes. Results. Most participants reported prior activism, including organizational involvement, attending Pride events, and educating others. Most participants indicated positive effects of activism and significantly higher well-being. Barriers to participation included outness, disability, and a lack of community acceptance; lack of participation was related to feelings of guilt and lack of community connection. Conclusions. Activism may be one avenue for SGMs to build resilience while resisting oppression.Keywords: advocacygender minoritiessexual minoritiessocial justice Disclosure statementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.Data availability statementThe data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, Sarah A. Job, upon reasonable request.