Even as more than half of LGBTQ+ adults (56 percent) say the current political climate makes them less likely to be open about who they are, LGBTQ+ people continue to build visibility and support for equality, according to new HRC Foundation data released ahead of National Coming Out Day on October 11. Most (85 percent) LGBTQ+ people are currently somewhat or very open about their LGBTQ+ identity with other people.
One-third (33 percent) of LGBTQ+ adults say they are more open than two years ago, compared with 22 percent who say they are less open. Younger adults are leading this shift, with about 40 percent of those ages 18 to 34 saying they are more open, while older adults are more likely to be very open to others, and their openness has held steady over the past two years.
Importantly, respondents see a connection between being known and building support for the community: 84 percent say wanting to build support for equality makes them more likely to be open. 92 percent agree that more openly LGBTQ+ people helps build public support for equal rights and protections.
With midterm elections less than a month away, HRC is calling on LGBTQ+ people and allies to take that commitment to positive change to the ballot box.
“National Coming Out Day 2026 is as important as ever, because our community knows exactly what we’re up against,” said HRC President Kelley Robinson. “Politicians are targeting LGBTQ+ people and making it harder to live openly, especially for transgender people. Coming out is deeply personal – your choice, on your timeline. But as our new data shows, we also know that coming out is deeply political – a way to build an environment where equality is a right, not a privilege. Being seen is how we win support. We come out for each other. This fall, we’re carrying that spirit to the ballot box. We’re voting in these midterms to protect every one of us, wherever we are on our journey.”
The Stakes Are Highest for Transgender People
Transgender and gender-expansive adults say the current political climate makes them – 70 percent – less likely to be open about who they are. At the same time, 78 percent 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 percent 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 percent feel connected to the broader community. In the past year, 55 percent visited an LGBTQ+ bar, cafe, bookstore or community center, and 49 percent 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
Right at 12 percent of U.S. adults now identify as LGBTQ+. Of the 50 states in our country, 40 have an LGBTQ+ population greater than 10 percent. Together with our families and allies, equality voters can decide elections.
Get ready and be prepared
HRC urges everyone to check their voter registration status immediately; make a plan to vote early, by mail or on election day; and bring along two or three friends to the polls.
This story is brought to you by Rosedale Health and Wellness and Dudley’s Place.
