By: Lindsay Marcal, Director, Membership 

This Pride Month, the National Health Council (NHC) recognizes the efforts of our members to reduce barriers to health care and advance health equity, including for the LGBTQ+ community. As we celebrate Pride, we also recognize the continued challenges that LGBT people face in managing chronic conditions and accessing care.  

The NHC is pleased to highlight members who advocate for equitable, accessible, and inclusive health care for the LGBTQ+ community. Learn more about what our members did to celebrate Pride, and how they continue to serve the health care needs of LGBTQ+ Americans:  

Alliance for Aging Research: In celebration of Pride month, hosted a special a conversation with a representative from ZAMI NOBLA, the National Organization of Black Lesbians on Aging.  

Alzheimer’s Association: In recognition that the LBTQ+ community may face challenges related to Alzheimer’s and dementia, the Alzheimer’s Association provides resources and guidance for LGBTQ+ community members and their caregivers.  

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Provides LGBTQ crisis and support resources, LGBTQ suicide research, and advocacy and education.  

American Nurses Association: Elevated the voices of LGBTQ+ nurses, past and present, in their communications this month in recognition of the role of nurses in fostering an inclusive health care system for all.  

American Pharmacists Association: Develops guidance for how pharmacists can address the unique health needs of the LGBTQ+ community and be allies.  

Epilepsy Foundation: Promotes visibility and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals living with epilepsy. 

LUNGevity Foundation: Hosted a virtual panel discussion on the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals have in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer and how to create a more inclusive care environment.  

Mental Health America: Provides LGBTQ+ mental health resources, stories sharing LGBTQ+ people’s experiences, and graphics and shareables for social media.  

NAMI: Advocates for public policies that reduce mental health inequities for LGBTQ+ populations and develops graphics and language for social media, key statistics, and LGBTQ+ mental health resources.  

RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association: Provides information about LGBTQ+ family building options, tracking of relevant legislative initiatives, and sharing stories about LBTQ+ family building experiences.  

Society for Women’s Health Research: Participated at a community health screening and resource fair presented by The Mayor’s Office on Women’s Policy and Initiatives in Washington, DC. 

The Trevor Project: Provides resources, news, research, partner campaigns, crisis services, peer support, education and advocacy in support of LGBTQ+ young people with a focus on suicide prevention.  

Many of the NHC’s Business & Industry members including Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis, Sanofi, and Teva Pharmaceuticals,also celebrated Pride month and their diverse employees through employee resource groups and other initiatives.