While there are few studies examining the relationship between the LGBTQ+ community and poverty in Canada, data in the United States and Canada suggests that LGBTQ+ members are more likely to be low income than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts (Badgett, Durso, & Schneebaum, 2013). Canadian data is limited in regard to sexual identity statistics, however US data indicates that female same sex couples and bisexual individuals are more likely to be low income. Similar to U.S. data, the 2005 Canadian Community Health Survey indicates that bisexual individuals, especially bisexual women, are more likely to be in poverty (Canadian Community Health Survey, 2005).
Studies suggest that Canadian LGBTQ+ youth are over-represented in poverty statistics, with Between 25 and 40 per cent of homeless youth identifying as LGBTQ+. Studies suggest that this is due to rejection from family members during the coming out process. Barriers in housing and education also prevent LGBTQ+ youth from accessing services and support. Services with a “one size fits all” approach to poverty can also contribute to LGBTQ+ members falling through cracks in services, making it important for services to understand the unique needs of the community.
Featured Resources
Vulnerabilities related to COVID-19 among LGBTQ2+ Canadians
Rainbow: BC Poverty Reduction Coalition
Queering Public Policy: A Canadian Perspective
New Patterns of Poverty in the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Community