Supporting Paid Leave

Produced by the HRC Foundation

Every year, millions of Americans face significant life events, including medical treatment and recovery, taking care of a loved one, or welcoming a child. Given the prevalence of workplace discrimination and higher rates of poverty, LGBTQ+ workers and their families often face additional hurdles to accessing leave. Furthermore, employer policies and laws regarding leave do not always recognize the full diversity of our families or LGBTQ+ specific medical needs, ranging from surrogacy and adoption to gender confirming therapies.

The HRC Foundation released a report detailing the results of its groundbreaking nationwide survey of LGBTQ+ people that reveals an urgent need for inclusive employer-paid family and medical leave.

Lived Experiences

  • Play the Video Finally a Family Man, Denied the Full Benefits

    Kipp Jarecke-Cheng was denied paid parental leave when he and his partner adopted their son. Congress must update the Family and Medical Leave Act to ensure all families -- including LGBTQ+ parents -- are protected.

  • Play the Video This Trans Dad and His Husband Deserve Paid Leave

    Brett and Chad faced hardship after their daughter was born. The family didn't have any paid family leave, and one dad lost his job because he took too much time off to care for his newborn. It's time for paid leave for all families.

  • Play the Video Celebrate Mother's and Father's Day By Supporting Paid Leave

    Far too many LGBTQ+ families do not have access to paid leave. It’s time every home has access to paid family leave.

Paid Leave Frequently Asked Questions

Who has paid leave? How do LGBTQ+ people benefit from paid leave? Find the answers to these questions and more.

Get Answers about Paid Leave

Paid Leave Critical for PLWH

Paid leave provides vital protection to people living with HIV (PLWH) and their caregivers.
More About Paid Leave for PLWH

Paid Leave Insurance

Despite nationwide marriage equality, LGBTQ+ people still fight every day to have our families recognized, and thousands of LGBTQ+ families live in states without explicit protection from discrimination.

More About Paid Leave Insurance

The Human Rights Campaign reports on news, events and resources of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation that are of interest to the general public and further our common mission to support the LGBTQ+ community.
Topics:
Workplace