TL;DR
- 62% of LGBTQ+ workers feel seen at work.
- 49% report experiencing discrimination.
- Comfort levels are rising, especially among Gen X.
- Salary negotiation training is highly desired.
- Policy changes alone are not enough.
In the latest buzz about workplace dynamics, a new report has dropped and it’s got some juicy insights for LGBTQ+ workers. The 2025 Shine the Light Report, sponsored by the nonprofit Be The Transformational Change Fund, surveyed a whopping 1,386 LGBTQ+ individuals across the United States. The findings paint a picture that’s both hopeful and concerning, showing that while progress is being made, there are still some serious gaps that need to be addressed.
First off, let’s get to the good news: 62% of respondents reported feeling comfortable being out to most or all of their coworkers. That’s a significant leap from previous years, and it’s clear that workplace culture is evolving. In fact, 74% of those surveyed said their workplace supports LGBTQ+ employees, up from 68% in 2024. It seems the tide is turning, and more companies are finally getting the memo that inclusion is not just a buzzword but a necessity.
But hold your horses, because it’s not all rainbows and sunshine. Nearly half—yes, you heard that right—49% of LGBTQ+ workers still reported experiencing discrimination at work. And if you think that’s just a minor detail, think again. Among transgender respondents, only 53% felt they could use restrooms that align with their gender identity. Talk about a major red flag!
“More than half of respondents say their workplace would benefit from LGBTQ+-focused anti-discrimination training,” said Evan Linett, MPP, the report’s lead researcher. This indicates that while some workplaces are making strides, there’s still a long way to go before we can truly say that LGBTQ+ employees are safe and supported.
Interestingly, the report also highlights generational differences. Gen Z workers reported the highest levels of discrimination, while millennials seemed to have it a bit easier. Gen X respondents, on the other hand, felt the most comfortable expressing their gender identity at work, proving that age does play a role in workplace dynamics.
And let’s not forget about career advancement! For the third year running, LGBTQ+ workers have expressed that salary negotiation training is the job resource they want most. It’s clear that while safety is a priority, so is climbing that corporate ladder.
Linett emphasizes that “progress is real—more LGBTQ+ employees are feeling supported at work, but the data makes it clear that policy alone isn’t enough.” Employers need to ensure that these supports are not just empty promises but are actually accessible and backed by leadership. It’s time for companies to step up and make inclusion a reality in the day-to-day lives of their employees.
The report draws on survey data and input from 15 contributors, including advisory group members and focus group participants. As we look forward to the next report in 2026, it’s crucial for the community to stay engaged and continue pushing for change. The full report is available at BetheTransformationalChange.org.
So, what’s the takeaway? While we’re seeing more LGBTQ+ workers feeling supported, the fight is far from over. Let’s keep the conversation going and ensure that all employees can thrive in an inclusive environment. After all, everyone deserves to feel seen and valued at work.