Health Resources for the Latino LGBTQ Community in Massachusetts

Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, equality, and the struggle for LGBTQ rights. However, it is also a crucial time to reflect on the unique challenges faced by the Latino LGBTQ community in terms of health and well-being. In Massachusetts, there are various resources available to support the LGBTQ population, especially those from diverse and multicultural backgrounds.

Some Statistics

LGBTQ+ Population in Massachusetts

Proportion of the Population: According to a 2020 report by the Williams Institute, approximately 5.4% of adults in Massachusetts identify as LGBTQ+. This represents around 318,000 people.
LGBTQ+ Youth: The report also indicates that approximately 10.2% of high school students in Massachusetts identify as LGBTQ+.

Mental Health

Depression and Anxiety: A study by The Fenway Institute found that LGBTQ+ adults in Massachusetts have higher rates of depression and anxiety compared to their heterosexual counterparts. About 30% of LGBTQ+ adults reported being diagnosed with depression, compared to 16% of heterosexual adults.

Physical Health

HIV: According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, in 2019, 55% of new HIV diagnoses in the state were among men.
Substance Use: LGBTQ+ individuals in Massachusetts have higher rates of substance use. A report from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health showed that LGBTQ+ adults are more likely to use tobacco, alcohol, and drugs compared to the general population.

Discrimination and Access to Healthcare

Experiences of Discrimination: According to the Massachusetts LGBTQ Youth Commission, 25% of LGBTQ+ youth reported experiencing discrimination at school due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Access to Healthcare: The Fenway Institute report revealed that 19% of LGBTQ+ adults in Massachusetts have avoided seeking medical care due to fears of discrimination or inadequate treatment.

Resources for the LGBTQ Community in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers a variety of resources designed to support the LGBTQ community with a particular focus on diversity and multicultural inclusion. Here are some key organizations and services:

1.Fenway Health:

A community health organization offering medical, mental health, and social support services specialized for the LGBTQ community. They provide comprehensive and culturally competent care, with a strong focus on the Latino LGBTQ community.

Address: 1340 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02215
Phone: (617) 267-0900

2.The Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth:

Offers resources and support for LGBTQ+ youth in the state.

Address: JRI Health Attn: MCLGBTQY, 555 Amory St. Suite 2, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Phone: (508) 944-1287

3. The Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC):

Provides resources and support for transgender individuals, focusing on inclusion and equity for people of diverse cultural and ethnic identities.

Phone: (617) 778-0519

4. Bagly (Boston Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth):

Offers support and health programs for LGBTQ+ youth.

Address: 28 Court Square Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 227-4313

5. Boston GLASS:

Provides services and support to LGBTQ youth aged 13 to 25, with a particular focus on youth from communities of color.

Address: 160 Gould Street, Suite 300, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (781) 559-4900

6. GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD):

Provides legal assistance and advocates for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in New England.

Address: 18 Tremont, Suite 950, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 426-1350

7. Latino Health Insurance Program (LHIP):

Helps Latinos obtain health insurance and access medical services.

Address: 88 Waverly Street, Framingham, MA 01702
Phone: (508) 875-1237

8. Brigham and Women’s Hospital:

Regularly attends to patients from the community, with a directory that includes the OutList, a list of physicians throughout Brigham who openly identify as LGBTQIA+.

Address: 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: (617) 732-5500

9. The Multicultural AIDS Coalition:

Offers programming and services to ensure accessible, high-quality HIV/STD prevention, care, and treatment services, with programs such as Connected Boston and LGBTQ+ Elders of Color.

Address: 9 Palmer Street, Roxbury, MA
Phone: (617) 442-1622

10. The Transgender Emergency Fund:

Helps homeless and low-income transgender individuals living in Massachusetts. Some of their services include support with prescription copays, personal items, and housing identification.

Phone: (617) 506-8631

Health and Well-being Tips

1. Seek Culturally Competent Medical Care:

Find healthcare providers who understand and respect your cultural and sexual identity. Fenway Health and other organizations in Massachusetts are good starting points.

2. Take Care of Your Mental Health:

Don’t hesitate to seek support for mental health. Support groups and counseling services can be very beneficial.

3. Get Tested for HIV and Other STIs:

Keep up-to-date with your HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) tests. Many community centers offer free and confidential testing.

4. Get Involved in the Community:

Participating in LGBTQ events and organizations can provide a sense of belonging and support.

Visit our virtual fair to find more health resources.