LGBTQ Inclusivity

LGBTQ Inclusivity

Because of discrimination and marginalization, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning and queer (LGBTQ) people and people who engage in same-sex sexual activity are at greater risk for health disparities.

LGBTQ people are often not addressed in the language, protocols, and approaches of sexual and reproductive health services and education. Services that are not inclusive may impact care-seeking behaviors and health outcomes among LGBTQ people.

LGBTQ youth who do not receive adequate education about their need for sexually transmitted infection testing and contraception, are at increased risk of poor health outcomes (compared to their heterosexual peers) such as:

• Unintended pregnancies

• Sexually transmitted infections, including HIV

• Depression and substance addiction

What We Do:

• Empower LGBTQ youth to seek sexual and reproductive health services, including contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections through inclusive, comprehensive sexuality education.

• Strengthen health services by training clinicians and health center staff on best practices for working with LGBTQ clients.

• Partner with organizations to integrate LGBTQ inclusivity into sexuality education and trainings.