Invisibly Invisible: An LGBTQ+ Self-Advocate Perspective on the Anti-LGBTQ+ Movement

Abstract

Despite historical shifts toward inclusion for individuals with Disabilities, negative views and societal stigmas still persist, specifically regarding gender and sexuality. Concurrently, there has been an increase in anti-LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) legislation, which poses a significant risk to the well-being and civil rights of LGBTQ+ individuals with Disabilities. In this article, Nicole Adler, a self-advocate who identifies in the LGBTQ+ community, tells her coming-out story. She emphasizes the critical need to proactively support and advocate for the rights and well-being of sexual and gender minorities within the Disability community. Nicole emphasizes the significance of inclusive sex education and provides a call to action for educators to better support LGBTQ+ students with Disabilities. Nicole hopes to inspire and encourage others by sharing her thoughts on the importance of advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals with Disabilities through this article.