GLAAD RESPONDS TO SELECTION OF NEW POPE

(New York, NY – Thursday, May 8, 2025)  – Today, GLAAD, the world’s largest LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) media advocacy organization, is responding to the selection of Cardinal Prevost as the next Pope:

GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis:
“The Roman Catholic Church stands on the threshold of a hopeful and inclusive new chapter. With Pope Leo XIV’s leadership, there is an extraordinary opportunity to inspire billions around the world and further embrace LGBTQ people with compassion, dignity, and love. He can build on the progress already made and help create a Church that truly reflects the universal message of acceptance and care for all. We are hopeful to collaborate with Pope Leo, just as we did with Pope Francis, to help ensure the Church continues to grow as a welcoming home for everyone.”

ABOUT LGBTQ PEOPLE OF FAITH

• In the U.S., 47% of LGBTQ people consider themselves religious. One in seven highly religious LGBTQ people are in a same-sex relationship.
• According to a 2022 poll, majorities of all religious groups favor state laws that protect LGBTQ people from discrimination in jobs, housing, and public accommodations. This includes support from a majority of Hispanic Catholics (80%), white Catholics (80%), and white Evangelical Protestants (60%).
• For more information on LGBTQ people and religion, refer to GLAAD’s Media Guide: glaad.org/reference/religion. For more information on the state of global LGBTQ rights, refer to: glaad.org/reference/global.
• A record high 71% of all Americans support marriage equality, according to Gallup, including 41% of weekly churchgoers.
• Pope Francis, Pope Leo’s predecessor, pushed for inclusion of transgender people in the Catholic Church, and welcoming and supporting trans women in Rome. He has stated trans people can be godparents at Baptisms and witnesses in weddings.
  • Pope Francis Calls for the Inclusion of Trans People in Catholic Church Practices.
  • For this group of trans women, the pope and his message of inclusivity are a welcome change.
  • Pope Francis: “Transgender people must be accepted and integrated into society”