Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in March, employees worldwide have been dealing with a broad range of circumstances, challenges, and needs. Some struggle to balance their childcare, school, and their day-to-day jobs while others grapple with isolation. Throughout, people with marginalized identities—in particular, people of color—have experienced disproportionate health impacts and a higher death rate, as well as the effects of structural racism and systemic discrimination.

Disability is a natural part of the human experience that crosses lines of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and religion.  Globally, people with disabilities represent over one billion people. 

“I am not only a member of the Armed Forces. I am a son, a brother, a friend, a member of my community, African American, and proudly gay.” -Booz Allen Senior Business Performance Analyst William Pickens 

For many of Booz Allen’s LGBTQ+ employees, military service is another important part of their identity.  Founded by a veteran and with veterans representing one-third of its employees, Booz Allen proudly supports its LGBTQ+ military employees—this Pride month and every month. Two of their stories follow.

“Pride Lives On is about the fact that as a community, we keep finding ways to come together, even when things look bleak and we’re kept apart. It’s about being sure that we be ourselves, and it’s about remembering that our existence continues to be a radical act, one that can and will change the world.”

From accessing healthcare to introducing a new name and pronouns at work, transgender individuals can experience many challenges on the journey to their authentic selves. A strong support system can make those challenges easier.