Fight? Or Flight? – It’s Time to get out

This blog originally appeared at Dallas Voice.

As Texas anti-LGBTQ legislation reaches boiling point, so do queer homeowners.

When Bob McCranie initially launched a website to assist LGBTQ individuals in leaving Texas due to the state’s anti-queer legislative agendas, some of his friends dismissed it as exaggeration. However, within just 60 days of the site’s launch, McCranie found himself needing to expand his resources to keep up with the overwhelming demand.

As a result, McCranie’s organization, Flee Texas, transformed into Flee Red States. Over the past few years, he explained, queer Texans have frequently engaged in discussions centered around the question, “Where are you going?” Recognizing the increasing threat posed by anti-LGBTQ legislation, gay homeowners in Texas are making the decision to leave the state in search of more welcoming environments. Faced with the looming presence of discriminatory laws, these individuals are opting to jump ship from the Lone Star State in pursuit of greater acceptance and equality elsewhere.

“If you eat at a restaurant, and you had horrible food, you would never go back and spend money at that restaurant,” McCranie said.

“You’d find a better restaurant and tell your friends to go there. States should compete for our money like restaurants do. [Texas] needs to treat us better than this, or we’ll take our tax money somewhere else.”

Drawing on his extensive experience as a gay Realtor and his deep roots in Texas, Bob McCranie, the founder of Texas Pride Realty, has taken on the role of providing a sanctuary for marginalized individuals not only in Texas but also across the country. In response to the increasing need for support, he established Flee Red States, a platform that connects LGBTQIA Realtors to assist homeowners seeking to sell their properties in states predominantly governed by Republican lawmakers.

Recognizing the importance of having a network of real estate professionals who understand the unique challenges and concerns faced by LGBTQIA individuals, McCranie has created a community of Realtors dedicated to helping people find refuge in more inclusive and accepting areas. Through Flee Red States, homeowners can access the expertise and guidance of these LGBTQIA Realtors, ensuring a smooth transition and a sense of security as they navigate the process of selling their homes and moving to more progressive regions.

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