Firearm Ownership, Risk of Firearm Violence, and Fear of Firearm Victimization Among LGBT Adults in California

This policy brief utilizes pooled data from the Gun Violence module of the 2021 and 2022 California Health Interview Surveys (CHIS) to provide information about risks and fear of firearm victimization among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations in California. 

Findings: Fewer LGBT than non-LGBT adults in California had firearms in their households (14% vs. 18%); however, risks for firearm-related injury or mortality, including past-year serious suicidal ideation (15% vs. 4.0%) and intimate partner violence (IPV) (4.1% vs. 2.4%), were more common among LGBT than non-LGBT adults. Notable variability in the presence, of firearms across regions and the prevalence of serious suicidal ideation across LGBT groups was observed. Findings indicate a need for enhanced firearm violence prevention efforts in some regions of the state and with specific population groups. Increased attention to safety in general and to mental health promotion for LGBT people is also recommended.