President Joe Biden is considering allocating millions of dollars to collect data on Americans’ gender identities. The U.S. Census Bureau has requested permission to include questions about sexual orientation and gender identity in the American Community Survey (ACS), the largest household survey in the United States.
Advocates argue that without more population data on the LGBTQ+ community, it is difficult to push for more inclusive policies and government funding that address their needs. The bureau acknowledges the need for more research and improvements in measuring these groups to produce accurate data.
The ACS has not previously studied the sexual orientation of the U.S. population, excluding a significant portion of the LGBTQ+ population. A recent report estimates that up to 17.3 million individuals remain unidentified due to incomplete questioning.
This request is part of the Census Bureau’s ongoing efforts to expand data collection on the LGBTQ+ population. Earlier this year, the agency included questions about sexual orientation and gender identity in its Household Pulse Survey, marking the first time the federal government sought such data in national surveys.
President Biden has been vocal about his commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, signing bills into law and filing lawsuits against legislation that targets transgender Americans. However, challenges remain, with hundreds of discriminatory bills introduced across the United States.
These bills and laws attack fundamental values and freedoms, including the right to be oneself. President Biden issued a message of support to the LGBTQ+ community, especially transgender children, affirming their belonging and emphasizing the importance of their safety.
In the face of these challenges, the allocation of funding for comprehensive data collection on the LGBTQ+ community is seen as a crucial step. It will provide the necessary information to advocate for inclusive policies and address the needs of these individuals effectively.
As discussions continue, President Biden remains committed to championing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and working towards a future where everyone is valued and protected.
