UPMC is committed to health equity and closing the gap within marginalized communities by providing quality experiences to all patients of all backgrounds.
In 1978, San Francisco artist Gilbert Baker created the rainbow flag — a flag that represents Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning (LGBTQIA+) pride.
While there are many opinions around the rainbow itself, one thing is certain: The six specific colors represent the diversity of community.
Local and national data shows the importance of health care providers who are aware of the obstacles diverse populations, such as the LGBTQIA+ community, face when receiving care. UPMC is committed to health equity and to closing the gap within marginalized communities by providing quality experiences to all patients of all backgrounds.
Discomfort with public perception, poor treatment by health professionals, and other barriers can prevent LGBTQIA+ community members from receiving health care that meets their needs. Each patient, employee, and health plan member should feel right at home. Through our programs, we are working on doing just that:
- Gender and Sexual Development Program
- Services for Teens at Risk (STAR) Center
- Transgender Transition Employee Guidelines
“Our engagement with 2018 Pittsburgh Pride and the Delta Foundation is affirmation of the transformative work UPMC continues to champion in pursuit of inclusion for all, in particular for our LGBTQIA+ employees, members, patients, and their families,” says James Taylor, PhD, chief diversity, inclusion, and learning officer at UPMC.
“Simply put, diversity is how we achieve our mission and how we grow our business. We remain steadfast in our resolve to enhance equitable health care in those communities we are so privileged to serve,” Taylor says.
Each color in the LGBTQIA+ pride flag represents a particular piece of history, energy, or meaning, much like UPMC’s values.
- Red — life
- Orange — healing
- Yellow — sunlight
- Green — serenity and nature
- Blue — harmony and peace
- Purple — spirit and diversity
No matter what color, value, or meaning you resonates with you, consider participating in Pittsburgh Pride.
*Based on a recent survey by the PERSAD Center.
Find out more about resources for LGBTQ+ patients and caregivers at UPMC.