You're on the lookout for a Discord server to discuss art, but you're also part of the LGBTQ+ community. You've had hit-or-miss experiences in the past when it comes to inclusivity, so you'd like to be confident in the next community you choose to join.

Suspicious Will Smith thinking about LGBTQ Discord Servers.

A healthy dose of skepticism is a good thing, but having a few strategies in place to find the right community is even better!

NEW TO DISCORD? Check out this Byte on navigating Discord first.

Discord discovery

Launch the discovery search engine while logged in on a desktop (sorry, this isn't available on mobile!)

Click the 🧭 compass icon at the bottom of your server list and start searching: this list isn't exhaustive (only public servers with 1,000+ members may be listed here), but it's a great place to start!

Check out this search for "lgbtq": over 500 LGBTQ+ Discord servers come up that can be further subdivided by subject topic.

Search for LGBTQ Discord Servers

For extra confidence in a server, check for the "Discord Partner" symbol in front of the server's name: these are thriving communities verified by Discord! "Divine Sister LGBTQ+" is a Discord-partnered server found under the "Gaming" category to discuss the game platform Roblox:

Example of LGBTQ Discord Servers

Disboard tags

For even more servers, head to disboard.org! Disboard is a public server search engine which allows you to search based on tags that server owners have assigned. Anyone can list their server on Disboard, regardless of their size.

This search method is especially useful if you're looking to specifically discuss LGBTQ+ issues or connect with other LGBTQ+ members, but you'll also come across servers for other topics that just happen to be inclusive.

Tags to try searching for:

🏳‍🌈 lgbtqia+

🏳‍🌈 lgbtq-friendly

🏳‍🌈 safe-space

🏳‍🌈 friendly

🏳‍🌈 gay/lesbian/bi/trans/queer

In this search for the tag lgbtq-friendly, over 1000 LGBTQ+ Discord servers came up:

Search for LGBT Discord Servers on disboard.org

Rules and moderation

Does the server include rules that are inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community? And once you enter are they being upheld?

While the following rules come from servers that range in topic, they all foster a welcoming community:

Resume and cover letter reviews 📝

anti-LGBQTIA+ behaviour will not be tolerated

Mental wellness 😌

Any discrimination or harassment will result in a ban

Study group sessions 📚

Homophobic statements are strictly prohibited

Quiz

Which of these points on a server's welcome page indicate an LGBTQ+ inclusive server?

Proactive features

Sure, you can always introduce yourself as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, but it's much easier to navigate when the culture is already established.

Welcome Aboard Hasan Minhaj GIF by Patriot Act

🔎 Look for clues like:

  • Friendly members welcoming you and not assuming your pronouns

  • Self-assign pronoun roles (with the option to pick up multiple)

  • Self-assign orientation roles (if applicable to the server)

  • An invitation to introduce yourself with your pronouns

  • A variety of identity flag and/or rainbow emojis

Uphold your boundaries

Even if you've put in the effort to find safe online communities, the internet is still a public space where anything could happen. If others are speaking to or about you in a way that threatens your psychological or physical safety, you deserve to be your own advocate.

Jake Johnson Fox GIF by New Girl

🚩 If you're feeling unsafe: 🚩

  • Voice respectfully but directly that you won't continue to engage if they continue the behaviour

  • Report the activity with server Moderators

  • Block members who are being disrespectful of your boundaries so they can't directly message you

  • Consider leaving the community altogether

Even if a space once felt safe but no longer does, you are entitled to change your mind!

Take Action

There are thousands of LGBTQ+ Discord servers ready to welcome you!

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