rights
A dazzling show of Pride in a ruby-red state keeps hope alive for this loyal resident
By Greg Owen at LGBTQ Nation
· June 24, 2026
· 4 min read
Retired electrician Richard Hunt, a St. Louis native, had always said he "would not live my life out in St. Louis." And yet, he declared, "68 years later, I am still here!" Hunt is one of the biggest boosters of the blue oasis in ruby-red Missouri. Related This gay dad felt incredible love & accepta
Key takeaway " And yet, he declared, "68 years later, I am still here!
Why this matters
Richard Hunt's experience in St. Louis highlights the complexities of LGBTQ+ rights in the United States, where legal protections and policies vary significantly by state. Missouri, a ruby-red state, has a stark contrast between its rural areas and cities like St. Louis, which has become a blue oasis. The city's commitment to the LGBTQ+ community is a testament to the power of local activism and civic engagement. As Hunt notes, the city's unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community is a notable exception in a state where much of the population has embraced MAGA ideology, which has been hostile to queer people. This dichotomy underscores the importance of local advocacy and the need for national resources, such as the Trevor Project and the National LGBTQ Task Force, to support LGBTQ+ individuals across the country, particularly in areas with limited protections. St. Louis' example serves as a model for other cities to follow.
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Category: rights ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: LGBTQ Nation ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Retired electrician Richard Hunt, a St. Louis native, had always said he "would not live my life out in St. Louis." And yet, he declared, "68 years later, I am still here!" Hunt is one of the biggest boosters of the blue oasis in ruby-red Missouri. Related This gay dad felt incredible love & accepta
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by LGBTQ Nation and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Greg Owen at LGBTQ Nation. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more rights coverage from LGBTQ News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .