Ohio: Anti-LGBTQ Incidents Rose in 2025 - GLAAD Report

Anti-LGBTQ incidents in the United States saw a significant increase in 2025, with Ohio ranking among the states experiencing the highest numbers. According to data tracked by GLAAD, a nonprofit dedicated to LGBTQ acceptance, over 1,000 acts of hate – including assaults, vandalism, and threats – were documented nationwide, representing a 5% rise from the previous year.

Ohio’s Experience

In Ohio, 50 incidents were recorded in 2025, placing the state fourth highest in the nation for the total number of reported incidents. GLAAD’s tracking methodology differs from standard hate crime reports, encompassing a broader range of expressions of hate, such as street harassment and protests targeting LGBTQ events.

Did You Know? Eighteen of the 50 incidents tracked in Ohio were identified as ‘propaganda drops’ carried out by white supremacist organizations like Patriot Front and White Lives Matter.

These “propaganda drops” involved the distribution of hateful rhetoric through flyers, pamphlets, and letters. GLAAD also documented five incidents of vandalism or property damage, three instances of arson, and several threats of violence within the state during 2025.

National Trends

Nationwide, June 2025 witnessed a particularly sharp increase in anti-LGBTQ incidents during Pride month, with 268 incidents reported – a nearly 400% increase compared to June 2022, when GLAAD began collecting this data.

Expert Insight: The increase in reported incidents appears to correlate with ongoing political debates and legislative efforts concerning LGBTQ rights at both the state and national levels, potentially emboldening extremist groups.

Sarah Moore, lead researcher for GLAAD’s Anti-LGBTQ Extremism Reporting Tracker, stated that questioning the right of LGBTQ people to exist can provide justification for harm. She also noted that states with historically strong LGBTQ protections are now experiencing a higher number of incidents as organizations actively work to roll back those rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does GLAAD track regarding anti-LGBTQ incidents?

GLAAD tracks a wider range of incidents than most state reports on hate crimes, including harassment on the street and protests against LGBTQ events.

How does Ohio rank nationally in terms of anti-LGBTQ incidents?

Ohio ranked fourth highest in terms of statewide incident totals, meaning it is among the top five states with the highest number of reported incidents.

What is driving the increase in these incidents?

The rise in anti-LGBTQ incidents corresponds with political debates and anti-LGBTQ legislation at both the state and national levels.

Given the current trends, anti-LGBTQ incidents will remain at similar levels, or even continue to increase, in 2026.

Ohio: Anti-LGBTQ Incidents Rose in 2025 – GLAAD Report