Harris County’s LGBTQIA+ Commission has released its inaugural report, which goes in depth about its accomplishments and work over its first year. The Commission spoke with residents and came up with recommendations on how the County can support the LGTBQIA+ community.
"When we learn about each other, it makes it that much harder to devalue one another, and we are in need of that,” said Brandon Mack, Vice Chair of the LGBTQIA+ Commission. “This commission is important not only for representation, but also for the commitment that Harris County is making to the LGBTQ community to ensure we are always at the table and in partnership with local government to address needs and issues.”
In June 2023, under Commissioner Lesley Briones’s leadership, Commissioners Court formed the County’s first-ever LGBTQIA+ Commission. Since its creation, there have been listening sessions, Commission meetings, and presentations by LGBTQIA+ experts to help members of the Commission create this report.
“Here in Harris County, we are committed to equality, we are committed to justice, and we will not let discrimination stand,” said Commissioner Briones. “This is more than words. We formed this commission so we could have actionable recommendations in how we can continue to advance justice, fairness, security, economic opportunity, and beyond.”
detailed in the report:
- Hosting a large scale LGBTQIA+ town hall
- Identifying ways the County can improve public health
- Building stronger partnerships with local law enforcement agencies
The Commission also highlighted several policy recommendations to make Harris County more inclusive, including:
- Conducting the first quality-of-life survey of LGBTQIA+ residents
- Introducing consistent LGBTQIA+ awareness and cultural competency training for County departments
- Investing in LGBTQIA+ educational resources
Read all the recommendations and upcoming plans in the full report below.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL REPORT
The Harris County LGBTQIA+ Commission holds meetings every two months everyone is invited to participate and share their thoughts on how to make a more inclusive and welcoming Harris County. For more information, visit the Commission’s website or email [email protected].