Living in the Buckle: Promoting LGBT Outreach Services in Conservative Urban/Rural Centers

A Comparison of Mental Health, Substance Use, and Sexual Risk Behaviors Between Rural and Non-Rural Transgender Persons

“…In comparison, little research to date has been conducted to document the experiences of rural transgender persons; however, small qualitative studies show that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations in rural settings have distinct health needs. In addition to lack of health care resources, poor transportation infrastructure is a structural barrier to the provision of services in rural areas, while lack of community and a hostile social climate emerge as social barriers among rural LGBT populations in the United States (Oswald & Culton, 2003; Willging, Salvador, & Kano, 2006; Drumheller & McQuay, 2010; King & Dabelko-Schoeny, 2009). Although not all of the studies included transgender participants, it is reasonable to anticipate that transgender persons in rural settings face similar challenges.…”

Examining the Nuance in Public Opinion of Pro-LGB Policies in a “Red State”

“…This research informs the work of LGB service providers and advocacy groups in Nebraska and similar so-called red states with large rural populations. The perception that people in red states or rural areas are wholly opposed to pro-LGB policies can hinder fundraising efforts in these areas and lead to a sense that it is futile to pursue advocacy efforts these causes (Drumheller and McQuay 2010). Thus, our findings that indicate more nuance and support of pro-LGB policies can be useful for these groups' ability to effectively motivate their constituents and overcome such apathy.…”

“…Assessing public opinion in these areas is important for addressing the fundraising and apathy challenges that service providers and advocacy groups can experience because of these narratives (Drumheller and McQuay 2010). Examining public opinion in red states and rural areas can enhance our understanding of how LGB people are viewed in these locations and the experiences LGB people living there have.…”

Social services for sexual minority youth: Preferences for what, where, and how services are delivered

“…Although the social and political climate for LGBTQ people has generally improved in the U.S. over the past several decades, this climate varies widely across geographic region and between urban and rural areas (Drumheller & McQuay, 2010). Thus, the a priori expectation was that youth in more politically conservative environments with relatively less visible LGBTQ communities would express stronger service needs.…”