2026 LGBTQIA+ Community Safety Survey
In February 2026, the LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee to the New York City Police Commissioner proudly launched the 2026 NYC LGBTQIA+ Community Safety Survey. This landmark initiative aims to gather direct feedback from LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers regarding their experiences (e.g., with hate crimes and harassment), safety concerns, and interactions with law enforcement (both positive and negative).
This independent study seeks to provide the Police Commissioner and policymakers with data-driven insights to improve the community’s safety, strengthen relationships, and identify policies that will promote justice for all LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers. A public facing report will also be widely shared with the community and LGBTQIA+ organizations.
The digital survey was open to all LGBTQIA+ adults that live, work, and study in New York City, or have a significant nexus to it (e.g., received gender-affirming services within the Five Boroughs). It was designed to be completely anonymous, trauma-informed, and inclusive of the community's vast diversity.
The Advisory Committee partnered with dozens of community leaders and LGBTQIA+ organizations to disseminate the survey widely and reach different groups within the community. To maintain independence and neutrality, the study was funded by members of the Advisory Committee. Additionally, the project was subject to an ethical review by an independent Institutional Review Board.
Preliminary results are expected to be released Summer 2026.
A long-form report is expected to be released Autumn 2026.
“This project is dedicated to Stonewall, its enduring legacy, and the continuing fight for LGBTQIA+ equality. We are extremely grateful to Commissioner Tisch for her support of this initiative and eagerness to engage with the community, as well as her longstanding allyship. We are also indebted to community members for sharing their experiences and voices with us, both of which will help build bridges and guide reforms. We are at their service and will volunteer as much time is needed to make this project an impactful success.”
-Bruce Pachter, Advisory Committee Chair
“This survey is a vital opportunity for LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers to have their voices heard at the highest levels of City government. The data we collect will directly inform policy recommendations aimed at ensuring that New York remains a safe, just, and inclusive home for everyone, regardless of gender identity, gender expression, and or sexual orientation. The public report will give the data back to the community, giving folks a powerful tool for advocacy.”
-Dr. Chris Chevallier, Research Lead
Patrol Guide Reforms
The Advisory Committee has helped implement landmark revisions to the NYPD Patrol Guide. This includes protocols for addressing and searching gender- nonconforming individuals, as well as the mandatory documentation of preferred names and genders.
The Advisory Committee continues this work to this day. We encourage the public to contact us with suggestions and to raise issues.
Comprehensive and Impactful Training
The Advisory Committee works closely with the Education Committee of GOAL to review the training of new recruits and school safety agents in regard to LGBTQIA+ issues. Members of the Advisory Committee are required to attend and observe recruit training to ensure that the new curriculum guidelines are followed and that they are received satisfactorily.