Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are essential to fostering affirming healthcare systems that truly support LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. However, in today’s shifting political landscape, DEI efforts face increasing scrutiny, policy rollbacks, and misconceptions that threaten progress. DEI is not about creating unfair advantages—it’s about ensuring that historically marginalized voices are heard in rooms where they’ve been excluded, and that every individual receives the compassionate, quality care they deserve.
This session explores the vital role of DEI in healthcare, examining how systemic inequities, legislative changes, and social movements shape the experiences of LGBTQ+ patients and providers. As DEI initiatives come under attack, it is more important than ever for healthcare organizations to double down on their past and future commitments. Our panel discusses how DEI uplifts communities, strengthens patient-provider relationships, and drives meaningful changes in healthcare education, policy, and delivery. Learn actionable strategies to sustain inclusive practices, address biases in healthcare settings, and advocate for policies that support equitable access to care. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, policymaker, or advocate, this session provides critical insights into why DEI matters now more than ever.
Panelists include:
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Toni Newman (she/her) – Director of The Coalition for Justice and Equality Across Movements at NMAC
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Omar Gonzalez-Pagan (he/him) – Senior Counsel and Health Care Strategist at Lambda Legal
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Greg Fosheim, JD, MPH (he/him) – Partner, McDermott Will & Emery LLP
- John Sovec, LMFT (he/him) – OutTalk Moderator & Host, Therapist – Coach – Speaker – Author of “Out: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your LGBTQIA+ Kid Through Coming Out and Beyond
Learning Objectives:
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Legal and Ethical Obligations in Gender-Affirming Care: Identify the legal and ethical responsibilities of healthcare providers in gender-affirming care, and understand the consequences of anticipatory compliance with discriminatory policies.
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Advocacy Organizations and Policy Challenges: Describe the role of advocacy organizations (e.g., Lambda Legal, ACLU, NAACP Legal Defense Fund) in challenging policies that limit healthcare access for transgender and gender-diverse individuals.
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Ethical Tensions in Healthcare Providers’ Roles: Evaluate the ethical conflicts between job security and professional duty to provide equitable care, and identify strategies healthcare providers can use to affirm transgender patients’ identities in restrictive legal contexts.
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Personal Reflection and Allyship in Combating Anti-Trans Discrimination: Recognize the importance of personal reflection and allyship in addressing anti-trans discrimination, and explore actionable ways individuals can support equity in both professional and personal spheres.
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Societal and Policy Dynamics Affecting Transgender Healthcare Access: Examine the broader societal and policy factors influencing healthcare access for transgender individuals, and discuss how collective advocacy and compassionate leadership can help create a more inclusive healthcare future.
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