How to Locate a Gay-Friendly Business in Your Area

You probably want to use businesses that share your values, but you have to find them first. Here are some ways to locate gay-friendly businesses in your area.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Alternative Lifestyle Magazines
• Internet Access

1. Look around at gay pride events for sponsors and booths. Companies that support these events are often leaders on gay and lesbian issues.
2. Find out if your city has a gay and lesbian business guide. Look in the racks of free publications at gay establishments and even at mainstream bookstores for guides with names like "Lambda Pages" and "Gay and Lesbian Yellow Pages."
3. Take note of who advertises in your city's gay and lesbian newspapers and magazines. If you don't know if there are any, call your local gay and lesbian community center, if there is one.
4. Call another gay-friendly business and ask for a referral. For example, your gay-friendly plumber might know of an air conditioning contractor.
5. Check with a gay or gay-friendly organization for a referral. If you don't know the name of one, look in the white pages under "Gay" or look for your local chapter of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays - also known as PFLAG.
6. Ask your friends if they can refer you to a business that shares your values.