Monday, October 11 is celebrated as National Coming Out Day for people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender, intersex, asexual and other identities (LGBTQIA+). The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division firmly believes every person should feel accepted and valued for who they are, no matter how they identify.

The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division recognizes that people who are deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing and late-deafened who also identify as LGBTQIA+ may experience unique barriers to services. We provide services to all people who are deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. We can also help connect people with specialized resources that meet their needs.

Here are a few valuable community resources:

• Deaf Equity
• Family Tree Clinic
• Minnesota Deaf Queers

In addition, our own mental health response team are experienced working with people navigating various aspects of their identity and building supportive networks for health and well-being.

If you would like more support or resources, please contact us!