On the disaster experiences of sexual and gender (LGBTI) minorities : insights to support inclusive disaster risk reduction policy and practice

Until recently, little attention examined the experiences and needs of members of sexual and gender minorities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex (LGBTI) people, in relation to disasters – communities who have, and continue to experience, varying forms of social and political marginality. Further, little analysis focused on the capacities of emergency service and government response organisations to meet the needs of LGBTI communities, nor on the policy frameworks that influence preparedness, response and recovery arrangements. This paper provides a synthesis of a three-year Australian Research Council funded project looking at LGBTI experiences of disasters in Australia and New Zealand and places this work within the wider, limited literature. We provide an overview of key findings from our research in relation to the negative experiences that exacerbate marginality and vulnerability, such as harassment in homes, emergency shelters and public spaces, and uncertain access to relief services and funds. We also identify elements of resilience and resistance within LGBTI communities that build upon social capital, and also of attentive and capable emergency management practice, that recognise and include LGBTI communities and their needs. We finish by providing suggestions to assist LGBTI people to take responsibility for enhancing their resilience and preparedness, as well as for governments and emergency response and recovery organisations to better meet the needs of LGBTI individuals, families and communities. We conclude by referring to the impact this project has begun to have in Australia.