The Trevor Project’s Post

Its 2023 and October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Why do we need to continue to shine a light on “disability employment”? According to a study completed by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation societal norms pertaining to sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as norms around ability, often work to deny LGBTQ+ people and people with disabilities opportunities that others enjoy in their daily lives. 🌈 Disabled LGBTQ+ people who live at the intersection of these two identities can face compounded discrimination and stigmatization, and it is important…to understand this complex dynamic. 🌈 LGBTQ+ adults, and transgender adults in particular, were significantly more likely than non-LGBTQ+ adults to self-report having at least one disability.  🌈 One in three (36%) LGBTQ+ adults self-reported having a disability, compared with one in four (24%) non-LGBTQ+ (cisgender and heterosexual) adults.   🌈 More than a third (35%) of cisgender LGBQ+ adults, and more than half (52%) of transgender adults (including both LGBQ+ and straight transgender adults), self-reported a disability. 🌈 LGBTQ+ people are more likely to be disabled than non-LGBTQ+ people. The duality of their identities as LGBTQ+ and disabled increases the amount of discrimination and bias they face in their daily lives, at school, at the doctors, or at work. 🌈 The barriers disabled LGBTQ+ people face start early in life. Disabled LGBTQ+ youth are bullied in school at elevated rates, which can lead to adverse outcomes such as dropping out of school 🌈 Disabled LGBTQ+ people are also more likely to face adverse economic outcomes, such as poverty, due to earning less for equal work, facing higher unemployment or lacking access to inclusive workplace benefits. Providing employees with the support they need improves #engagement #recruitment and #retention, whereas doing nothing reinforces an outdated and damaging stigma. #KnowBetterDoBetter #NDEAM2023 #DisabilityIsDiversity #DisabilityInclusion 

🌈 June: LGBTQ+ Pride Month 🌈 ♿️ July: Disability Pride Month ♿️ As we celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month in June and Disability Pride Month in July, it's crucial to recognise both of these marginalised communities. These months remind us of the ongoing struggles and the incredible resilience of those who identify as LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities. But beyond individual recognition, it's vital to acknowledge the intersecting identities within these communities. Many individuals live at the intersection of multiple marginalities, facing compounded challenges due to their unique experiences. For example, LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities often encounter additional barriers in accessing inclusive healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. *Why Intersectionality Matters in Education* Within my EdD doctoral work, I emphasise the importance of an intersectional approach to understanding and supporting learners. The holistic diverse model of disability recognises that individuals' experiences are shaped by a multitude of factors, including sexual orientation, gender identity, race, and socio-economic background. By adopting this model, we can create more inclusive and supportive educational environments for all students. - Understanding intersectionality helps us create support systems that address the unique needs of those with overlapping marginalized identities. It's not just about recognizing one aspect of their identity but understanding how multiple aspects interact and influence their daily lives. - Policies that consider intersectionality are more likely to be effective and inclusive. For instance, educational policies should be designed to support students who might face discrimination based on both their sexual orientation and their disability. - Celebrating intersectionality ensures that the voices of those with multiple marginalized identities are heard and valued. This is essential for fostering an environment of true inclusion and equity. *Action Steps for Allyship* - Take the time to learn about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities. Resources and training on intersectionality can provide valuable insights. - Create environments where individuals feel safe to express their full identities without fear of discrimination or prejudice. This includes physical spaces, digital platforms, and social interactions. In education, adopting a holistic and diverse model of disability means understanding learners' full experiences and providing tailored support. This approach ensures that all students, especially those from intersecting communities, have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. As we move from June to July, let's commit to celebrating and uplifting all individuals, particularly those at the intersections of marginalised communities. #PrideMonth #DisabilityPrideMonth #Intersectionality #Inclusion #Diversity #LGBTQ #DisabilityRights #Equity #Allyship #HolisticEducation

On the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, I'm reflecting on the many, many incredible self-advocates I've had the opportunity to work with in the past 6 years with Real Talk Conversations. Our Peer Facilitators, Liz Etmanski and Larissa Gunkel, have significantly shaped the landscape of our sexual health workshops, materials, and offerings, and continue to do so with their passion for welcoming their peers into comprehensive sexual health conversations. In my Connecting Queer Communities (CQC) project over the past year, I've also had the privilege of working alongside my Peer Coordinator Alison Klein, who works tirelessly to ensure all spaces she inhabits -- workspaces, social spaces, community spaces-- embody the mantra of 'nothing about us without us'. To say it's been an honour to be her colleague would be an understatement. In the photo below, CQC is marching in the 2023 Vancouver Pride Parade alongside team members of QMUNITY, Western Canada's largest 2SLGBTQIA+ resource centre. Outside of the frame of this photo, one of our CQC's members is achieving the goal they set out when first joining: “I want to walk in the Pride Parade with my banner that says people with diverse abilities can be LGBTQ." If I can share anything from my professional experience on IDPWD, it's that folks with disabilities have a sexuality, they can absolutely be 2SLGBTQIA+, and they have a right to any and all information to help them live the life they want. But more than anything, my reflection is that we need to pass the mic more. It's not enough to create programming with the best of intentions of a community in mind, the community needs to be there from the beginning. Their voices need to be centred, and we need to keep listening to them. Disability, queerness, neurodiversity-- nothing is a monolith. Needs change and grow, and those without those identities will never stop needing to listen to those within them. #InternationalDayForPersonsWithDisabilities #IDFPWD #2SLGBTQIA+ #Inclusion #RightsBasedAdvocacy

Repost • Disability:IN “Continuing to highlight the unique intersections between the #Disability and #LGBTQ communities, we are proud to share this video from our Social Media Associate, Justis Myers, who highlights their #Disability & queer intersectional identity. As a black queer person with non apparent disabilities. Check out their video and share your thoughts in the comments!” 🎥: https://lnkd.in/gEPbAP7w #DisabilityRepresentation “[VD: Justis is a young person with an Afro wearing a abstract, multicolored shirt, sitting in their home office in front of a painting. As they speak, captions populate the screen.] Transcript: Having intersectional Pride means the world to me. It's about celebrating every aspect of who I am-my queerness and my disability-and embracing the uniqueness that comes with it. Having pride in both communities empowers me in so many ways, especially at work, and reminds me to be unapologetically myself, bringing my authentic self to the table. Embracing Disability Pride to me means bringing a perspective that highlights the importance of accessibility, inclusivity, and equality in the workplace. And when I celebrate my LGBTQ+ Pride, I bring visibility and representation to the table. It reminds me that I have a voice, and that my experiences as a queer person matter. By being proud of both aspects of my identity, I can challenge stereotypes, break barriers, and create a more inclusive and diverse work environment. If you're also juggling multiple identities, embrace your pride! Your unique blend of experiences and perspectives is what makes you incredible. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels empowered to bring their whole selves to work. Remember, pride is not just a month; it's a year-round celebration of who we are. If this resonates with you, please let me know in the comments below!”

Social media continues to transform the way we connect, communicate, and celebrate our unique stories and diverse identities. Being part of an organization that empowers me not only to share my own story but also to uplift the voices of my colleagues, corporate partners, NextGen Leaders, or disability-owned business owners is one of the main reasons I wake up excited in the morning. I always emphasize how our stories have the power to change the hearts and minds of others; when I read the comments under our 'People IN Disability' videos or other featured stories, it reminds me how each of us, regardless of our identities or status, can be a catalyst for greater empathy, understanding, and #Inclusion. By sharing our experiences, we highlight the beauty of diversity and the strength found in our differences. Whether it's discussing #DisabilityInclusion, celebrating #Pride, or showcasing the achievements of our networks, every story matters. #DisabilityRepresentation #LGBTQRepresentation

Disability Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need to advocate for the rights and safety of individuals with disabilities, especially those who are also part of the LGBT community. By raising awareness and fostering understanding, we can work towards a society where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported. This disability pride month we are highlighting intimate partner violence within the LGBTQ+ disability community. Individuals with disabilities experience violence at higher rates than their non-disabled peers, often due to factors like dependence on caregivers, social isolation, and discrimination. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with disabilities are four times more likely to experience violence than those without disabilities. Contact LGBT Life Center if You're Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence LGBT Life Center has staff who can help with: • direct crisis intervention, • educate about IPV, boundaries, • warning signs, • understanding healthy relationships, • safety information, • legal advocacy and accompaniment, • safety planning, • referrals, • support groups, • and much more. Call us at 757-640-0929 to speak to a crisis counselor or email info@lgbtlifecenter.org. #DisabilityPrideMonth #LGBTQ #IPV #StopTheViolence #SupportLGBTQ #EndAbleism #InclusiveSupport #LGBTQDisability #CommunitySupport #Intersectionality #ProtectTransLives #HealthEquity #AdvocateForAll #SafeSpaces #Empowerment

As an LGBTQ activist and human rights defender, I am proud to contribute to the fight💪🏾 for equality and inclusivity for all. However, while we focus on numerous marginalized groups, it is imperative that we do not overlook the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities within the labra+ 🏳️🌈 movement. Disability inclusion is a crucial aspect of the human rights movement, as it recognizes the inherent dignity and worth of every person, regardless of their abilities. Just as LGBTQ individuals deserve acceptance and equal rights, individuals with disabilities should be afforded the same opportunities, access, and respect. Unfortunately, society often perpetuates the marginalization of disabled individuals through physical, social, and attitudinal barriers. From inaccessible spaces to limited employment opportunities, these barriers hinder their full participation in society. As a proud LGBTQ activist with an #invisibledisability🕺🏾💃🏾, it is my duty to join forces with disabled diverse individuals and advocate for their rights alongside our common cause of liberation, inclusivity, and justice. By embracing disability inclusion within the LGBTQ movement, we can ensure that all individuals, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, are accounted for and empowered. It is about fostering a culture of compassion, understanding, and accessibility. Through education, awareness campaigns, and policy changes, we can dismantle the barriers that restrict disabled individuals from fully engaging in society. As an LGBTQ activist and human rights defender, I am committed to making a difference for all marginalized communities. By acknowledging and actively advocating for disability inclusion, we can create a world that truly values diversity and celebrates the rights and contributions of every person, regardless of ability or sexual orientation. #solideritywithugandanrainbowwarriors🌈

Pride Month is all about inclusion. Businesses, find out what makes a truly inclusive Pride community from our valued nonprofit partners 🏳️🌈 Read our full blog 👉 https://lnkd.in/dy33QZDD Thank you: The Source LGBT+ Center Center for Disability Rights AERBVI Association Katherine Magnoli Carousel description: 1: “5 ways businesses Can Lead with Inclusion this Pride Month. From our trusted nonprofit partners [red heart emoji]. 2: Title: “Highlight a variety of voices”. “Having an intersectional approach to Pride means that businesses are truly demonstrating allyship to all in the community. I encourage businesses to support LGBTQ members that do not assume all have the same physical, mental, and socioemotional abilities. Stetler Brown (he/him) The source LGBT+ Center”. 3: Title: “Education is key”. “One of the best things you can do is to educate yourself about disability and the LGBTQ+ community. There are many great writers and video bloggers with varying disabilities that talk about this intersection of identities and experiences. Erin Valley Center for Disability Rights.” 4: Title “Put accessibility at the forefront”. “Make sure your websites, blogs, and newsletters have the proper captions, sign language interpreters, and/or large bold print. Make sure your commercials, or any promotional tools have representation of people that fall under both categories. Katherine Magnoli”. 5: Title “Have an inclusive planning team”. “If you are planning events, involve disabled individuals in the planning process. By having individuals help with the planning process, organizers can ask for guidance when questions arise. Erin Valley, Center for Disability Rights.” 6: Title “Create affinity groups” “Establish an employee affinity group for both LGBTQ and Friends and for employees with Disabilities and Friends. Give them an account so they can plan activities to attract members and provide information and support. Elly du Pr AERBVI”. #PrideMonth #Pride2024 #PrideInclusion #pride #accessibility #inclusion #PeopleWithDisabilities #accessiBe 

Sunday 3rd December was International Day of People with Disabilities.    To celebrate this important date, today we held a global webinar that focused on how we can make sustainable impact to the the lives of people living with disability and difference. Here, we learned about:   • The global context and statistics of disability and how it affects different groups of people, such as different genders or those in the LGBTQ+ community • The stories of disability and difference from colleague speakers and guests  • Making an impact through inclusive building design and inclusive partnerships • Some interactive activities to appreciate how differently others many experience and interact   with the world, compared to ourselves   We heard from Tracey Staley, Vice President of Human Resources in our Electric Thermal Solutions business who, as our Network Executive Sponsor, shared more about how we plan to make impact through this network.    Why this matters:   According to the World Health Organisation, approximately 1.3 billion people are living with a disability, which is 16% of the world's population! In addition, approximately 15 to 20% of the population could be neurodivergent, which includes conditions such as autism, dyslexia, and dyspraxia, to name a few.    Certain individuals and groups may also be especially impacted by disability and difference; evidence from 19 countries shows that only 2.3% of women with disabilities compared to 2.8% of men with disabilities hold leadership roles and in the US, the Human Rights Campaign found that LGBTQ+ adults and transgender adults were significantly more likely than non-LGBTQ+ adults to report having at least one disability, especially mental health conditions.    These statistics are startling, and show us how crucial it is to seriously consider how we can support those living with disability and difference in our workplace. If your organisation is not already asking: "How can we make an impact for our colleagues living with disability and difference?"...make sure you start that conversation today. This will affect so many more people than many of us may realise. Also, a huge thank you to Clare Tidal Training Direct Ltd. Make sure you check out her 'Public Hearts' campaign in Cheltenham UK! #InternationalDayOfPeopleWithDisabilities #EveryoneIsIncluded #disability #neurodiversity #inclusion  

Looping in our previous discussion on intersectionality, it's important to look historically at the various movements for marginalized groups and note the lack of intersectionality of those that were most in the foreground. In the women's suffrage movement, women of color were consistently left out. In the civil rights movement, the contributions of female leaders were generally downplayed or overshadowed. Likewise, much of the coverage of the disability community is lacking the voices of those that may belong to multiple marginalized groups, like people of color or members of the LGBTQ+ community. Understanding the historical context, like in the article below, is a start, but we must move beyond that to ensure that our inclusivity reaches beyond individual siloed identities and allows everyone to be themselves and participate fully. #DisabilityPrideMonth #DisabilityPride #Intersectionality #Intersectional #Marginalized #DisabilityCommunity #LGBTQ #LGBTQIA #DEI #DEIB #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #Belonging #DisabilityTooWhite https://lnkd.in/eRAhbWRC