As part of Pride Month in June, the county has launched its first survey of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning residents, officials announced.
The survey is designed to collect, anonymously, information from the LGBTQ+ community about health and wellness issues, access to resources and services, any experiences of discrimination, and other aspects of life in the county.
“Montgomery County has made a commitment to ensuring that the LGBTQ+ community feels safe and welcome,” County Executive Marc Elrich said in a press release. “This survey will provide important data to help us keep that commitment. Our LGBTQ+ community contributes to our history, economic vitality, and culture, building a brighter future for all.”
“We are hopeful that the results from this survey will give us a clearer understanding of the experiences and needs of Montgomery County’s diverse LGBTQ+ communities,” added Dr. Amena Johnson, the county’s LGBTQ liaison. “We designed the survey to elicit actionable responses. We don’t plan to sit on this data; we plan to use it to create a safer and more affirming Montgomery County for the LGBTQ+ community.”
Among others, the survey results will be shared with the county’s LGBTQ Advisory Board. Members will be at the Pride in the Plaza event on Sunday, June 26 from noon to 8 p.m. at Veterans Plaza to discuss and distribute the survey.
The survey is available on the Office of Community Partnerships website and should take about 10–15 minutes to complete. The deadline to complete the survey is Friday, July 15.
Screenshot from Montgomery County website