Anti-LGBTQIA discrimination describes the processes and behaviours by which people who are queer, or perceived as being queer, are subjected to discrimination and/or violence. Anti-LGBTQIA prejudices are a part of ideologies of inequality, in which LGBTQIA people are seen as being inferior and other characteristics such as, for example, heterosexuality being presented as, and valued for, being supposedly more natural.

“Queer” is a term used to describe multiple different identities and

Anti-LGBTQIA discrimination can also occur alongside other forms of discrimination. This means that a person can experience discrimination based on racism, ableism and/or sexism at the same time as being affected by anti-LGBTQIA discrimination.

Queer people often experience discrimination in their everyday lives. For example, this can happen if they are stared at or insulted on the street, during medical examinations or if they are treated unfairly in the workplace or at school. Anti-LGBTQIA discrimination can take many forms, including physical violence. It can also be structural, for example if LGBTQIA people are granted less rights and a lower status because they are LGBTQIA.

MIQ NRW aims to create visibility for those who experience anti-LGBTQIA discrimination, and for the different forms it can take.