---
title: "LGBTQ people in science"
chunk: 5/5
source: "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBTQ_people_in_science"
category: "reference"
tags: "science, encyclopedia"
date_saved: "2026-05-05T04:03:44.393262+00:00"
instance: "kb-cron"
---

=== United Kingdom and Europe ===
Pride in STEM, a charitable organization based in the United Kingdom, co-founded the International Day of LGBTQ+ People in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. In Germany, a similar movement was founded under the name LGBTQ STEM Berlin.
The Proud Science Alliance is a collective organisation made up of representatives from LGBTQ+ networks from across the healthcare and life sciences sector.
The first interdisciplinary conference in the UK for LGBTQ+ people working in STEM fields was the LGBTSTEMinar hosted at the University of Sheffield in 2016. It has been hosted annually since then and in 2020 the Royal Society Athena Prize was awarded for this work.

== Corporate Policies & Inclusion Efforts ==
Corporate policies aimed at promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion have become important for diversity, equity, and innovation in the modern workplace. Achieving true inclusion requires more than surface-level commitments; it involves embedding equity into policies, practices, and cultural norms.

=== The Value of Inclusive Corporate Policies ===
Inclusive policies serve as both a moral imperative and a strategic advantage. Research consistently demonstrates that diverse workplaces outperform less inclusive ones by fostering creativity, improving problem-solving, and enhancing employee satisfaction. The 2021 Corporate Equality Index by the Human Rights Campaign illustrates that workplaces supportive of LGBTQ+ employees experience higher productivity, retention, and employee engagement. Despite this, LGBTQ+ employees in many parts of the U.S. remain vulnerable due to inconsistent federal protections, necessitating proactive efforts by individual companies.

=== Examples of Inclusive Practices ===
Several key practices exemplify the commitment to inclusion, from equitable benefits to creating safe spaces for gender expression.
Gender-neutral bathrooms, for instance, offer essential dignity and inclusivity for nonbinary and transgender employees. By removing binary constraints, these facilities help mitigate daily stressors for gender-diverse employees.
Similarly, respecting preferred pronouns is another cornerstone of an inclusive workplace. The recognition of self-identified names and pronouns fosters a culture of respect and reduces microaggressions. Inclusive dress codes further empower employees by eliminating outdated gender norms and allowing for authentic self-expression.
Equitable leave policies are particularly vital for LGBTQ+ families, who have historically been excluded from benefits such as parental leave and family health insurance.

=== Industry Examples in LGBTQ+ Inclusion ===
Companies that expand the language of their policies to include all family structures demonstrate a commitment to true equity. Finally, robust anti-discrimination policies provide a foundational safeguard, ensuring that all employees feel safe, valued, and respected.
Apple is a leader in promoting diversity, with initiatives such as Pride@Apple, a resource group for LGBTQ+ employees. Apple's workforce reflects significant representation from underrepresented communities, and its openly gay CEO, Tim Cook, serves as a visible advocate for equity.
AT&T, a pioneer in LGBTQ+ inclusion, was among the first companies to implement anti-discrimination policies based on sexual orientation. Its LGBTQ+ employee network, League at AT&T, has been a model for workplace resource groups since its founding in 1987. The company also actively supports LGBTQ+ visibility through sponsorships like the LOVELOUD music festival.
Google demonstrates its commitment through extensive philanthropic efforts, such as donating millions to LGBTQ+ organizations and initiatives like OutRight Action International. The company's platform amplifies LGBTQ+ visibility through features such as LGBTQ-friendly business attributes and Pride-themed doodles.
IBM has a longstanding history of inclusion, offering domestic partner benefits since 1996 and collaborating with organizations like Out & Equal to advance workplace equity. The company's leadership on legislative issues, including personal appeals to Congress for the Equality Act, underscores its dedication to systemic change.
Salesforce similarly prioritizes LGBTQ+ inclusion through equality groups such as Outforce and targeted diversity recruiting initiatives. In 2021, the company launched gender-inclusive benefits, including support for transgender employees and their families, during Transgender Awareness Week.
PayPal has taken bold stances against discriminatory policies, such as withdrawing plans for a headquarters in North Carolina after the state passed anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. Its partnerships with organizations like Out in Tech demonstrate a broader commitment to advocacy and digital equity.
Pinterest stands out for publishing its own gender transition guide and earning top scores in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index. The company provides resources and benefits aligned with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, reinforcing its dedication to inclusivity.

=== Broader Impact ===
Corporate efforts to support LGBTQ+ employees extend beyond internal policies. By leveraging their platforms, these companies influence societal norms and advance broader conversations about equality. For example, public support for the Equality Act and partnerships with advocacy organizations amplify the fight for federal anti-discrimination protections. Furthermore, initiatives like diversity resource groups provide critical networking and mentorship opportunities, enabling LGBTQ+ professionals to advance their careers. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain. Companies must continually evaluate and adapt their policies to address emerging needs and ensure all employees feel empowered. The ongoing advocacy of industry leaders sets a promising precedent for workplaces of the future, where diversity and inclusion are integral to corporate success. By adopting and expanding these practices, businesses can drive meaningful change for their employees, industries, and society at large.

== See also ==
500 Queer Scientists
LGBT pride
LGBT history

== References ==

== Further reading ==
Welton, Tom (14 February 2014). "Gay prejudice? It's not easy admitting you're ... a scientist". The Guardian.
Scarpelli, Andrew (19 October 2017). "How I realized that LGBT+ scientists like me can inspire others in their field". Massive.

== External links ==
National Organization of Gay and Lesbian Scientists and Technical Professionals
500 Queer Scientists Campaign
Out in STEM Conference
Pride in STEM
LGBTQ STEM Berlin Twitter account