Hawaiʻi State LGBTQ+ Commission honored in national report

Hawaiʻi State LGBTQ+ Commission has something extra to celebrate this year during Pride Month.

It received national recognition in the 2026 LGBTQ+ State Business Climate Index, which highlighted Hawaiʻi’s efforts to foster inclusion and support LGBTQ+ residents and families.

The report published this month by Out Leadership ranked Hawaiʻi 17th nationally and classified the state as “Unlikely Risk” — the highest category available — for LGBTQ+ business climate factors.

Out Leadership’s study recognized Hawaiʻi State LGBTQ+ Commission’s work to advance visibility, education and engagement for LGBTQ+ communities throughout the state.

“We are honored to see Hawaiʻi’s ongoing efforts recognized on a national stage,” said Hawaiʻi State LGBTQ+ Commission Vice Chairperson Michael Golojuch Jr. in a release about the national recognition. “This recognition reflects the dedication of countless community members, advocates, public servants and partners who have worked together to make Hawaiʻi a place where all queer people can live, work and thrive.”

The report noted Hawaiʻi’s longstanding legal protections for LGBTQ+ people, including protections in employment, housing and public accommodations, as well as recent actions to strengthen support for LGBTQ+ youth and families.

It also highlighted Hawaiʻi’s continued efforts to expand inclusion through policy development, public education and community engagement.

The commission’s 2025 inaugural Queer Day at the Capitol and 2026 follow-up event June 1, with Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green’s Sunrise Pride Flag raising ceremony, during which he issued his proclamation declaring June as Pride month in Hawai‘i, were specifically showcased by the report for brining together community organizations, advocates, public officials and residents from throughout the state to increase civic engagement and awareness of issues affecting LGBTQ+ communities.

Launch of the commission’s inclusive queer glossary designed to promote respectful and accurate communication was also cited, as well as the historic display of Pride flags at the State Capitol.

“The Commission was established to ensure māhū, LGBTQIA+ and QTPI+ voices are represented in state government and public policy discussions,” Golojuch said. “Being recognized in this report demonstrates the value of that work and the progress Hawaiʻi continues to make toward inclusion and equality.”

You can review the full 2026 LGBTQ+ State Business Climate Index report here.

Visit the Hawaiʻi State LGBTQ+ Commission website for additional information about the organization.