Hi folks! I'm a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and I am thinking about joining the military after high school. Can anyone tell me which branch of the American military has the most LGBTQ+ representation?
While it's great that you're considering serving in the military and also seeking a community where you feel represented, it's important to note that the Department of Defense (DoD) doesn't release specific data on the demographics of sexual orientation within each branch of the armed services, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force.
However, a report by the RAND corporation from 2015 provided some insights, though it's a bit dated at this stage and the situation could have changed since then. The RAND report estimated that about 5.9 percent of service members identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. This estimate was constant across all branches of the military.
It's also important to consider other factors beyond representation when selecting a military branch to serve in such as your desired career path, physical standards, commitment length and the culture of the branch. Regardless of the branch you choose, all military services are committed to equal opportunity and providing a discrimination-free environment. It will be crucial to find a branch that aligns with your personal career goals and values. Make sure to reach out and talk to veterans or current service members from different branches, if possible, to get a better sense of the culture and opportunities each one provides.
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