A recent Gallup poll has revealed a significant increase in the percentage of Americans identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT), with Generation Z leading the trend. The poll, conducted among over 14,000 U.S. adults, found that 9.3% of respondents identify as LGBT, marking a substantial rise from previous years.
Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2006, showed the highest percentage of LGBT identification at 23%, compared to 14.2% among millennials. This shift in demographics indicates a generational change, with younger adults more likely to identify as non-heterosexual.
The study also highlighted a growing acceptance of bisexuality among younger generations, contributing to the overall increase in LGBT identification. Additionally, the poll noted that individuals identifying as LGBT were more likely to be female, liberal, White, and reside in urban areas.
However, experts suggest that this trend could see a reversal under the Trump administration's policies, particularly regarding gender treatments for minors. The administration's stance on transgender medical procedures for minors may impact future trends in LGBT identification.
Despite the rise in LGBT identification, the majority of respondents, 85.7%, still identified as straight. Among those identifying as LGBT, 5.2% identified as bisexual, 2.0% as gay, 1.4% as lesbian, and 1.3% as transgender. The study also noted a small percentage of participants identifying with other non-traditional LGBT labels.
President Trump's executive orders related to gender have sparked controversy, with legal challenges arising due to their impact on federal policies. The orders aim to define gender strictly based on biological sex and restrict the use of gender pronouns in federal documents, among other directives.
While the Gallup poll reflects a changing landscape in LGBT identification, the future trajectory may be influenced by evolving political and social factors, including governmental policies and societal attitudes.
