The origins of LGBTQ+ Pride in the U.S. are deeply intertwined with activism, particularly highlighted by the Stonewall Uprising of 1969. Though not the first LGBTQ+ uprising in U.S. history, this watershed event, triggered by a police raid at the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, became the catalyst for the gay liberation movement. The community resistance marked the beginning of a new era where Pride was synonymous with protest and a call for change, rallying against systemic oppression and societal exclusion.

Growth of the Movement

Since its inception, Pride has grown from a purely protest-focused event into a broad celebration of identity, love, and sovereignty, expanding into annual parades, festivals, and events across major U.S. cities. These celebrations are not just about festivity but serve as potent reminders of the community’s ongoing struggles and resilience. 

Over the decades, as LGBTQ+ visibility has increased, so has societal acceptance, which has had a profound effect on public policies and the community’s social standing. Fierce and persistent pushback and oppression remains, however, from large and influential groups in politics, corrections, and healthcare, among others.

Health Impacts of Oppression and Acceptance 

Consequences of Discrimination

The effects of discrimination on the LGBTQ+ community are profound, especially regarding mental health. Discriminatory laws and societal stigma have long cast shadows over the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals, manifesting in higher rates of psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, and suicide. BIPOC LGBTQ+ people, including Black and Hispanic adults and youth, are at even higher risk.

The lack of protective laws and pervasive negative attitudes can exacerbate feelings of alienation, distress, and fear leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety. 

Gay men have long been the most visibly persecuted members of this community, but both the historical and more recent violence against lesbian, non-binary, and transgender people, particularly trans women, serve to highlight the ongoing and escalating crisis.

LGBTQ+ people are not only attacked on the street. Many politicians are actively trying to erase them from all public spaces including schools, through discriminatory legislation. 

Discrimination also impacts access to healthcare. LGBTQ+ individuals often encounter barriers to health services ranging from outright denial of care–including refusing care for the children of same-sex couples–to related barriers such as:

• Denial of health insurance, 
• Discrimination in housing, employment, and credit, 
• Verbal abuse by healthcare providers and/or staff, and 
• Refusal by providers to use a patient’s preferred name and gender identity. 

Such environments prevent many people from receiving, and sometimes even seeking, routine care, leading to later stage diagnoses and poorer management of chronic diseases.

Benefits of Acceptance

On the flip side, acceptance has a measurable positive impact on LGBTQ+ health. Supportive environments and inclusive policies can significantly reduce mental health disparities. Studies have demonstrated that supportive same-sex marriage laws and protective workplace policies correlate with reduced rates of psychiatric disorders and suicide among LGBTQ+ individuals. 

Inclusive health policies also encourage better engagement with healthcare systems, leading to earlier disease detection and better health outcomes overall. This highlights how legal recognition and the consequent societal acceptance can directly benefit physical and mental health.

Advocacy and Research

Advocacy and research have been central to advancing LGBTQ+ health. Organizations like the Gay Men’s Health Crisis, founded during the early HIV/AIDS crisis, and the Lesbian Health Initiative have been pivotal. These groups not only provide specialized health services but also advocate for comprehensive health policy reforms.

Researchers and advocates have worked to illuminate the unique health needs of the LGBTQ+ population, leading to improved health guidelines and practices that are inclusive of LGBTQ+ identities. Their efforts ensure that healthcare providers are educated on the specific health risks and barriers their LGBTQ+ patients face, promoting a healthcare environment that is respectful and informed.

Still Working Toward Equity 

The history of LGBTQ+ Pride in the United States is a powerful narrative of struggle, resilience, and triumph. While significant strides have been made in societal acceptance and legal rights, the persistent health disparities faced by the LGBTQ+ community underscore the need for continued advocacy and inclusive policy-making. 

Recognizing the contributions of LGBTQ+ pioneers in health and celebrating Pride are vital in moving towards a more inclusive and health-supportive society. As we honor this history, we must also commit to a future where every individual can access the healthcare they need without fear of discrimination or prejudice.

The fields of public health and healthcare are enriched by the diverse contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals who have made significant strides in advancing medical science, promoting health equity, and providing compassionate care. This Pride Month, by highlighting the intersectionality of LGBTQ+ individuals from various races and ethnicities, we can better appreciate the depth and breadth of their impact.

Historical Pioneers and Modern Champions

Dr. Sara Josephine Baker (1873-1945), a pioneering public health physician and lesbian, made monumental contributions to child and maternal health in the early 20th century. Working in New York City, she drastically reduced infant mortality rates through innovative public health strategies, such as promoting hygiene and establishing child health stations. Her efforts laid the groundwork for modern public health practices, particularly in urban environments.

In contemporary times, Dr. Rachel Levine, a transgender woman, serves as the assistant secretary for Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Levine’s leadership has been instrumental in addressing public health challenges such as the opioid crisis and COVID-19, advocating for mental health services, and promoting health equity for LGBTQ+ communities. Her visibility and advocacy have paved the way for more inclusive healthcare policies and practices.

Intersectional Leadership in Action

The intersectionality of race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation brings unique perspectives and strengths to the healthcare field. 

Dr. Scout, a Native American transgender man, is the executive director of the National LGBT Cancer Network. His work emphasizes the need for culturally competent care and research that addresses the unique cancer risks faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those from marginalized racial and ethnic backgrounds. Dr. Scout has been a pivotal figure in promoting cancer prevention and treatment strategies tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ communities.

Dr. Ada D. Stewart, an African American lesbian family physician, serves as president of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Stewart’s advocacy focuses on improving healthcare access and outcomes for underserved communities, highlighting the importance of addressing social determinants of health. Her work in community health centers has provided crucial services to marginalized populations, ensuring they receive comprehensive and compassionate care.

A transgender woman and Asian American advocate, Cecilia Chung has been a powerful voice for transgender health and HIV/AIDS awareness. Her efforts with organizations like the Transgender Law Center and the San Francisco Department of Public Health have helped to dismantle barriers to healthcare access for transgender individuals, particularly those from immigrant and minority communities. Chung’s work has been critical in shaping policies that protect transgender individuals and ensure their access to necessary medical services.

Innovations in Research and Practice

In the fight against HIV/AIDS, Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, a gay man of Greek descent, has also been a leading figure in the public health arena. As the Director of the Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention at the CDC, his innovative approaches have included promoting PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and expanding testing and treatment services, significantly impacting HIV prevention efforts. Dr. Daskalakis’s work has been instrumental in reducing HIV transmission rates and improving the quality of life for those living with HIV.

Dr. Tonia Poteat, an African American transgender woman, is a prominent researcher and educator at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research focuses on the health disparities faced by transgender individuals, particularly those of color. Dr. Poteat’s work has been pivotal in developing inclusive healthcare practices and policies, ensuring that transgender individuals receive equitable and respectful care.

Grassroots Impact

Bamby Salcedo, a Latina transgender woman, is the President and CEO of the TransLatin@ Coalition. Her advocacy work has been vital in addressing the health and social needs of transgender Latinx individuals, providing resources, and promoting policies that ensure equitable healthcare access. Salcedo’s grassroots efforts have empowered countless individuals and fostered a sense of community and support.

In the areas of diversity and mental health, Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, a gay man and former President of the American Medical Association, has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ patients. His efforts have included addressing health disparities, promoting inclusive medical education, and advancing policies that protect LGBTQ+ patients and healthcare providers. Dr. Ehrenfeld’s leadership has been crucial in creating a healthcare environment that respects and values diversity.

Dr. Jonathan Lassiter, a Black gay psychologist and public health advocate, specifically works to address the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ people of color. His research and clinical practice focus on the intersection of race, sexuality, and health, promoting culturally sensitive care and advocacy.

Recognition and Equity

The contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in public health and healthcare are profound and multifaceted. By recognizing the intersectionality of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity, we can better appreciate the unique perspectives and innovative solutions they bring to the field. 

Their work not only advances medical science but also promotes health equity and compassion, making the healthcare system more inclusive and effective for all. As we celebrate these contributions, let us continue to support and amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ healthcare professionals and allies who are dedicated to improving health outcomes for diverse communities across the United States.

Allies in Healthcare

We also want to give a shout-out to the allies in healthcare whose work is equally invaluable.  Dr. Anthony Fauci, while not LGBTQ+ himself, has been a staunch ally, working closely with LGBTQ+ scientists and activists, including during the HIV/AIDS crisis. His collaboration with diverse voices has been instrumental in developing effective public health responses, fostering a culture of inclusivity in medical research, and saving countless lives. 

Dr. Fauci is just one prominent example, but there are many allies across the nation and abroad who actively support, advocate for, and provide sensitive, compassionate care for LGBTQ+ individuals every day, with or without formal or widespread recognition. 

Their work is appreciated. Not all heroes wear capes.