LGBTQ+ people have a long history of honorable military service. However, open service for sexual minority people was only possible after 2011, when the Department of Defense’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) policy was repealed. Open service for transgender and gender diverse people was possible briefly between 2016-2019, but then they were not able to serve openly again until 2021.
While VA has long served LGBTQ+ Veterans, the legacy of these policies continues to impact LGBTQ+ Veterans’ impression of inclusivity at VA.
Research shows LGBTQ+ Veterans expect to experience discrimination in VA facilities which may prevent them from seeking care. Research also shows that, due to stigma, stress, and discrimination, LGBTQ+ Veterans as a group experience higher rates of several health conditions compared to non-LGBTQ+ Veterans, including higher risk for suicide.
Read more at News.VA.gov.
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