ABSTRACT
A pilot study of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (GLBTQ) visitors to cultural institutions revealled that the gays and lesbians visit and attend in larger proportions than the greater populations, but that membership and donorship seem relatively low. Comfort in visiting and attending the institutions appears to be directly related to the appearance of heteronormative assumptions in the venues, presentations, and representations. The data suggest that overall, although respondents feel comfortable visiting our institutions, institutions do not score well in creating a sense of welcome for GLBTQ individuals or couples. Gays and lesbians feel most welcome visiting these institutions as in groups. While group visitation is important, if institutions desire to encourage individual memberships and donations, then the needs of individuals must be satisfied. Respondents to this survey suggested that the overall atmosphere of the venues is less influential than the content or offerings of the venue.
