For LGBTQ business owners in Missouri, creating an inclusive space often comes at a cost

Missouri ranks among the worst states in the U.S. for LGBTQ inclusions and protections.
When Mike Hastings and Armando Vasquez were in the beginning phases of creating their tropical-themed café Anchor Island Coffee in Kansas City two years ago, they hid that they were a couple.

Before starting their business, the two lived in Overland Park, Kansas, where they felt less accepted than they do in their current community. They decided to come out as gay when they had to sign the lease for their business space.

“We wanted to be upfront and honest with them about who we are and what we’re going to do before we enter into that lease,” Hastings said.

The decision to publicly disclose their relationship did not come without challenges — some people in their lives no longer talk to them, Hastings said. Vasquez in particular was not accepted by some members of his family.