According to recent analysis by the Movement Advancement Project (MAP), Mississippi presents some unique challenges and opportunities for LGBTQ+ business owners and professionals. The statistics tell an important story about our community – with approximately 99,000 LGBTQ+ people calling Mississippi home, including 48,000 LGBTQ+ workers who contribute to our state’s economy every day.
Here are some key points that affect our business community:
- While federal protections exist through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), state-level protections vary significantly
- Five cities (Clarksdale, Holly Springs, Jackson, Magnolia, and Rosedale) have passed comprehensive local protections
- About 6% of Mississippi’s population lives in areas with local nondiscrimination protections
- 34% of LGBTQ+ adults in Mississippi are raising children, highlighting the importance of family-inclusive workplace policies
For those looking to start or grow their businesses, it’s crucial to understand both the challenges and support systems available. The Chamber is committed to helping you navigate this landscape and connect with resources that can help your business thrive.
This information has been sourced from the Movement Advancement Project’s Mississippi State Profile. Read the entire report here: https://www.lgbtmap.org/equality_maps/profile_state/MS