This blog originally appeared at CBS News.

In recent years, an Illinois city has emerged as a haven for the LGBTQ community seeking affordable housing options. With its inclusive and supportive environment, the city has attracted individuals and families looking for a place where they can feel accepted and celebrated for who they are. The local community has worked to create safe spaces, organize events, and establish support networks, making it a welcoming destination for LGBTQ individuals seeking both a sense of community and affordable living. As this trend continues, the city’s reputation as an LGBTQ-friendly haven with affordable housing options is likely to grow, benefiting both its residents and the broader community.

The dream of owning a home seems out of reach for millions of Americans, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community. But in Peoria, Illinois, Alex Martin owns a home at age 30 — something she never thought would be possible.

“I’m black. I’m trans, and I’m visibly so, and so having a space that, like, I made that I can just come in and recharge, I’m ready to face the world again,” she said.

And she’s not alone. In recent years, many LGBTQ+ people and people of color, who are statistically less likely to own homes because of discrimination and wealth gaps, are moving to the same city.

At first, they came from places like New York and Seattle, where home prices are sky-high. Now, many are coming from some of the 21 states that have passed anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.

Last year, realtor Mike Van Cleve sold almost 80 homes, and nearly one-third were sold to people moving from out of state.

Angie Ostaszewski says she has almost single-handedly grown Peoria’s population by about 360 in three years thanks to TikTok.

“When I first started making TikToks about Peoria, it was about ‘improve your quality of life,'” she said. “But in the last six months especially, people are relocating here more for survival, and that’s such a different conversation.”

Ostaszewski also said she would like for her posts to help spread the word even further.

“I love the idea of shaking up that big cities are the only places that LGBTQ+ people can thrive,” she said.

click here to see full blog: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/peoria-illinois-lgbtq-housing/?fbclid=IwAR0Mu_1kD48cZAn8ciEFvDHWVHJ6-SpkNjbRmN04qpjtQ7axoD603FKn52Q

This blog originally appeared at CBS News.

An Illinois city has emerged as a haven for the LGBTQ community seeking affordable housing options. With its welcoming atmosphere and relatively low cost of living, the city has become an attractive destination for LGBTQ individuals and families. By providing a safe and inclusive environment, the city is fostering a sense of belonging and promoting equality for all residents.

The dream of owning a home seems out of reach for millions of Americans, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community. But in Peoria, Illinois, Alex Martin owns a home at age 30 — something she never thought would be possible.

“I’m black. I’m trans, and I’m visibly so, and so having a space that, like, I made that I can just come in and recharge, I’m ready to face the world again,” she said.

And she’s not alone. In recent years, many LGBTQ+ people and people of color, who are statistically less likely to own homes because of discrimination and wealth gaps, are moving to the same city.

At first, they came from places like New York and Seattle, where home prices are sky-high. Now, many are coming from some of the 21 states that have passed anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.

Last year, realtor Mike Van Cleve sold almost 80 homes, and nearly one-third were sold to people moving from out of state.

Angie Ostaszewski says she has almost single-handedly grown Peoria’s population by about 360 in three years thanks to TikTok.

“When I first started making TikToks about Peoria, it was about ‘improve your quality of life,'” she said. “But in the last six months especially, people are relocating here more for survival, and that’s such a different conversation.”

Ostaszewski also said she would like for her posts to help spread the word even further.

“I love the idea of shaking up that big cities are the only places that LGBTQ+ people can thrive,” she said.

This blog originally appeared at ABC Eyewitness News.

People are fleeing states that have passed anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ laws for states like Illinois where their rights and medical care are protected.

Illinois (WLS) — Some people are leaving states with anti-trans or anti-LGBTQ+ laws and relocating to LGBTQ+ friendly states like Illinois. They said it’s an issue of safety.

A realtor and some local organizations said they’ve seen an uptick in people looking to move to the Land of Lincoln to escape anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in other states. That includes one father who told the I-Team his family is moving to Illinois because he believes it will help ensure his son’s well-being and safety.

“As a parent, you have one job, love your kid. That’s your only job and your kids telling you something over and over and over again. If you love them. You believe them,” said Mark, who asked that his last name not be used.

His family is moving to Illinois for the sake of his 7-year-old son, who is transgender. To protect his son’s identity, Mark is using another name, Connor.

“Connor just wants to be a boy. And so, you know, we weren’t dismissive, but we were sort of quiet about it the first couple times Connor said this. And we would listen to him and say, you know, ‘We can deal with that later. You’re a little young.’ But it became sort of a common thing. Maybe once a month, that maybe once a week,” Mark said.

click here to see full blog: https://abc7chicago.com/illinois-lgtbq-rights-gender-affirming-care-drag-trans/13402900/

This blog originally appeared at Youtube.com

As more and more Red States pass hateful laws concerning LGBTQ people, more of us are packing and moving. Are you an LGBTQ person living in a Red state and looking to move to a more accepting and safer place? This video is for you! Join us as we discuss some of the best states and countries for LGBTQ people to live in. We’ll cover everything from legal protections and anti-discrimination laws to community resources and social events. Whether you’re looking for a new home or just curious about the LGBTQ scene in different parts of the world, this video has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this essential guide to LGBTQ-friendly places to live!