Mata on challenges and barriers faced by LGBTQ+ veterans
Mata discusses challenges faced by LGBTQ+ veterans including discrimination, housing instability, barriers to health care, social isolation, and the impact of DADT and transgender service restrictions. She notes 36% of LGBTQ+ veterans avoid VA services due to perceived bias.
Many LGBTQ plus veterans have faced unique challenges through their military services and transition to civilian life, including discrimination,
housing instability, barriers to health care, and social isolation.
For some, these challenges were compounded by policies such as don't ask, don't tell, and restrictions on transgender military service.
Between 2000 and 2014, approximately 1,300 transgender individuals were discharged from the military because of their gender identity.
While significant progress has been made, barriers remain.
Many are not immediately visible and can include shame, hesitation, or fear.
Of seeking support.
Nationally, 36% of LGBTQ plus veterans report avoiding VA services due to perceived bias.
No veteran should ever feel that their identity diminishes their service or affects their ability to access the benefits and support they have earned.