DAY 16: Equity & The LGBTQI+ Community

Imagine not feeling accepted at home, in your community or at school because of your gender identity or sexual orientation.

Like race and socioeconomic status, inequities for people identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBTQI+) can be seen across many dimensions, including health care, education, and in the workplace. 

Research from the Center for American Progress shows that LGBTQI+ individuals experience widespread discrimination, often manifesting itself as getting passed over for promotions, being bullied in school, being refused health care, or being denied equal treatment at a store or hotel. 

The intersectionality of race and sexual orientation and gender identity also has compounding effects on individuals’ well-being: Black transgender and gender non-conforming individuals experience some of the highest levels of discrimination and threats on their personal safety. 

Today’s Challenge:

Option 1: Watch this quick video to learn why using correct pronouns is so important. Add your pronouns to your email signature, to show your advocacy for LGBTQI+ individuals. 

Option 2: Watch Ashlee Marie Preston on the TEDx stage discuss effective allyship and intersectionality from her perspective as a Black transgender woman. She discusses when and how to speak up, and what it truly means to be an ally. 

Option 3: Read this article exploring how schools are struggling to support LGBTQI+ students and how we can work to create safe spaces for youth to thrive. 

Option 4: Journal on your own experience of feeling safe or unsafe based on your sexual orientation and gender identity. If you are getting married, can you easily find someone to officiate your wedding? Can you hold hands or kiss in public? Can you find clothes that match your gender identity and body type? Can you openly display photos or talk about your spouse at work?