WHY INVOLVE LGBT PEOPLE?

For personnel involved in community planning who have a lot on their plate, making an effort to involve particular populations within the community can seem like a lot of extra, unnecessary work.

1. You are required to make sure that all members of the community are represented in your community planning process.

2. LGBT people often have particular issues and needs that do not always overlap with the needs of other members of the community and therefore need to be specifically addressed.

3. LGBT people are not 'victims'. Though most LGBT people have faced discrimination and homophobia at some point in their lives, it's important to remember that LGBT people are also survivors, and (like everyone) have their own talents and insights to offer. Remembering that LGBT people have a lot to offer your process is important to having the most constructive consultation or engagement possible.