The inaugural report gives an overview of the work the commission has done in its first year, which included naming officers, creating three standing committees and hosting a series of listening sessions to engage with the community.
Major takeaways
During the listening sessions, LGBTQIA+ residents and allies voiced concerns on issues like safety, access to mental health resources, representation and support for LGBTQIA+ youth encountering hostility. The report included the following policy recommendations for county officials to consider:
- Enhancing local data collection through a quality-of-life survey of Harris County LGBTQIA+ residents.
- Becoming the named LGBTQIA+ liaison and advisory council for the Harris County Sheriff's Office, and other county departments and areas in need of LGBTQIA+ inclusive policies and strategies.
- Introducing consistent LGBTQIA+ awareness and cultural competency training for Harris County law enforcement agencies.
- Developing a pipeline of qualified LGBTQIA+ residents for county boards and commissions.
- Investing in LGBTQIA+ educational resources at county community centers.
What they're saying- "This inaugural report reflects the resilience of Harris County's LGBTQIA+ community and the commission members who have brought this vision to life," Briones said during the meeting. "This report is not only a testament to amplifying LGBTQIA+ voices but also is a call to action for all of us to continue building a county where everyone can thrive. Harris County rejects hate and discrimination and is committed to building a more just, equal, inclusive community for all. I look forward to our continued partnership with the commission as we take action to advance justice."
- "Harris County has made such important progress for LGBTQIA+ people over the past few years and this commission is history-making and gives our community a voice we have never had before," Commission Chair Brad Pritchett said during the meeting. "It is our hope that the work of the LGBTQIA+ Commission will help inform how the county can uplift and support its LGBTQIA+ constituents in truly meaningful ways."
What's nextThe report also outlined the commission's goals for the next year, which include:
- Convening LGBTQIA+ organizational and community leaders to identify gaps and areas of opportunities for change.
- Hosting a large-scale, LGBTQIA+ town hall.
- Hosting a banned book fair.
- Continuing to engage with community members and seek input.
- Partnering with local LGBTQIA+ organizations on Harris County's first LGBTQIA+ quality of life study.
- Identifying ways the county can continue to combat HIV locally.
- Building stronger partnerships with local law enforcement agencies to improve LGBTQIA+ cultural competency.
No action was taken following the commission's presentation, however the court did accept the report.
