This is the second Latino LGBT needs assessment. The first was conducted in 2003 by Triangle Speakers. The survey was developed to implement culturally appropriate programming by understanding the social realities, needs and issues affecting Santa Cruz County Latina/o lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) community.

The report confirms that the Latino LGBT respondents “experience discrimination not just based on gender and sexual orientation, but also based on their ethnicity and skin color." The report concludes that “while Santa Cruz County is generally known as a progressive and accepting community, it is not immune to the powerfully homophobic and racist environment and sentiments that encompass American culture.”

The Diversity Center is a non profit organization that is dedicated to building a diverse community, promoting health and well being, and advancing social justice for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and questioning individuals and their allies in Santa Cruz County. With the recent organizational merger between the Diversity Center and Triangle Speakers a commitment has been made to better understand and address the needs of the Latino LGBT community. The Latino Outreach program is committed to expanding the Diversity Center’s accessibility, inclusivity, and outreach to the Latina/o and Spanish speaking community.

For more information please contact Abel Murillo, Latino Outreach Coordinator at (831) 425-5422 oramurillo [at] diversitycenter.org or visit http://diversitycenter.org/programs/latino-outreach/