Within the queer community, Asian Americans are often overlooked. Despite having played a pivotal role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights in the US, they continue to face dual oppression: racism and homophobia, including stigma from within their own cultures. This discrimination has contributed to a growing mental health crisis among this population.

🔇A Crisis Hidden in Silence🔇

Nearly 40% of LGBTQ+ Asian American youth have seriously considered suicide in the past year (The Trevor Project, 2021), and more than 50% experience symptoms of anxiety and depression (The Trevor Project, 2023). Unfortunately, AAPI adults are not spared, as they are twice as likely to suffer from depression compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers (NAMI, 2020).

👁️Multiple Layers of Invisible Constraint👁️

In the US, Asian Americans are often boxed into the “model minority” myth, which dismisses both their individuality and hardships. On top of that, in many Asian families, queer identity may be seen as a disgrace due to traditional beliefs, forcing people to navigate between “coming out” and “filial piety”.

🚧Systemic Neglect and Cultural Barriers🚧

Mental health is still heavily stigmatized in many Asian cultures, where the fear of “losing face” prevents people from seeking help. Only 8.6% of Asian Americans seek professional mental health care, a rate which iss far lower than that of other racial groups (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 2019). A systematic review (Chu, 2024) shows that despite multicultural training for providers (APA Multicultural Guidelines, 2017), many still report experiencing discrimination even during therapy. Language barriers and cultural stigma make accessing care even harder. Yet, their resilience shines. From street protests to policy advocacy, or creative artwork to mutual support, queer AAPI are rewriting their own narratives through solidarity and actions.

This Pride Month, we call for…

🩵Inclusivity: Reject one-dimensional labels. Embrace the full identities of queer AAPI!
💜Support: When someone comes out to you, start by listening, not judging.
💙Action: Challenge the systems that marginalize queer and AAPI voices, no matter where–at home, at work or with peers. Be an active ally!

Happiness & belonging aren’t privileges–they’re human rights.