QUESTION

Do you think that it is better to disclose that one is queer when applying for positions or is answering "Prefer not to Disclose" more likely to avoid discrimination?

Answer

"This is a really difficult question because unfortunately queer people do still face discrimination in the workplace at alarming rates.

So I completely understand why people prefer not to disclose, and your queerness should have nothing to do with your ability to complete the job.

However, personally, I prefer to disclose because I live my life very out, I live very openly, very freely with my queer identity. I want to be in a workplace, in a work culture with a work environment where I feel safe and accepted to do so.

So I'm always going to disclose so I know what I'm getting myself into. These people know my identity, know who I am and know how I want to show up to work everyday."

Gabrielle Vincent
She/Her

is a former professional soccer player who works in the Washington D.C. Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs.