By Jey McCreight, Ph.D.
I keep hoping for the right moment to write this Pride 2022 blog post—the moment when the news isn’t all about another piece of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, systematic efforts to roll back LGBTQ+ rights, or even attacks on my very right to exist. Because I do exist, and gay and trans people like me have existed throughout recorded history. 
But I’ve realized something. The right moment will not come anytime soon.
Under Attack
The LGBTQ+ community is under attack in a way many of us have never experienced in our lifetimes, and others hoped they would never see again. We are witnessing a systematic effort to roll back LGBTQ+ rights to a time where teachers could be fired for being gay and “conversion therapy” wasn’t recognized for the abuse it is. What we are watching unfold is a campaign to stop LGBTQ+ people from existing.
This is not only obviously morally wrong, but is literally impossible scientifically. LGBTQ people are a natural part of human diversity. Regardless of how many laws strip away our rights, queer people will continue to be born. We have existed throughout human history and will continue to exist.
What will change is how we exist. And here at 23andMe — where we celebrate the diversity of humankind — we believe that existence deserves to be healthy and happy, just like everyone else on this planet. As a health company, we cannot stay silent while a torrential downpour of anti-LGBTQ+ hatred hurts people both physically and emotionally.
Support
23andMe unequivocally supports our LGBTQ+ employees, customers, family, and friends. They deserve access to proper health care, including gender-affirming care. They deserve the ability to bring their whole selves to work, school, and the world without hiding their true selves. They deserve to use the bathroom without fearing physical assault. They deserve to feel safe and loved.
We understand that we have room to improve as well, especially around trans-inclusive language in our reports. We have heard your feedback and are actively working on improvements. Please continue providing feedback and holding us accountable, because change happens with your help.
We hope that you’ll join us in taking action to support LGBTQ+ rights and health. Please look up what anti-LGBTQ legislation is happening in your state, contact your representatives, and vote.
