🌈 Pride & Progress: How Visibility, Advocacy, and Community Are Changing the Tax World 🌈
June is here, which means it’s time for rainbow flags, reflection, and a celebration of how far the LGBTQ+ community has come—and how far we still have to go. But this isn’t just about parades or party playlists. It’s also about progress, visibility, and showing up proudly in every space—including the world of tax.
If that sounds unexpected, it shouldn’t. LGBTQ+ individuals and professionals have always been part of this field—preparing returns, interpreting code sections, guiding clients through complex decisions, and running firms. What’s changing now is that more of us are doing it openly—and using our voices to advocate for others in the process.
As an openly gay tax professional, Pride Month is both personal and professional. I’ve seen how changes in tax law can reflect broader changes in society—and how policy can either uplift or marginalize entire communities. This month, I want to highlight some of the ways tax intersects with LGBTQ+ life, starting with a focus on what’s going right.
💼 Visibility in the Profession
When I first started my career, being out in the workplace wasn’t something you saw very often—especially in fields like tax and accounting. But things are changing.
Today, there are growing communities of LGBTQ+ professionals who aren’t just present—they’re thriving. From internal DEI programs to LGBTQ+ employee resource groups, and now entire roundtables like the one I co-founded – Pride in Numbers, a space for LGBTQIA+ accountants and allies to connect and support each other – we’re claiming our space. That visibility matters. It tells the next generation that you don’t have to choose between being your authentic self and being a successful professional. You can be both. (And yes, your tax return can still be on time.)
You can Sign Up Here for Pride in Numbers – If you’re new to Roundtable Labs you’ll be asked to create a password, and a profile to log in.
We also have a directory of LGTBQ+ Accountants and Allies if you’re looking for an accountant.
🏳️🌈 Policy Progress Worth Celebrating
Tax policy isn’t known for its warmth and inclusivity, but there have been meaningful victories:
- Marriage Equality: The Supreme Court decisions in Windsor (2013) and Obergefell (2015) didn’t just change lives—they changed tax forms. LGBTQ+ couples could finally file jointly, access spousal benefits, and be treated equally under federal tax law.
- Medical Deductions for Gender-Affirming Care: Court rulings have affirmed that certain gender-affirming procedures are deductible as medical expenses. It’s a small win that affirms dignity and agency, and paves the way for more inclusive interpretations of tax law.
- Representation in Guidance: More IRS publications now include gender-neutral or LGBTQ+ inclusive language. It’s slow progress, but even minor updates signal a shift toward broader recognition and respect.
These milestones aren’t just abstract, they impact real lives, real planning, and real returns. And they reflect the tireless work of advocates, attorneys, and everyday taxpayers who fought for change.
🤝 Community Matters
One of the best parts of being an LGBTQ+ tax pro is the community. Whether it’s sharing best practices, supporting colleagues through tough seasons, or planning events that merge professionalism with pride (yes, we’ve even talked tattoos), I’ve found a space where authenticity isn’t just allowed – it’s celebrated.
And if you’re LGBTQ+ in this field, whether you’re out, not yet out, or just figuring out what that means for you, I want you to know: there’s a place for you here. The profession is stronger when everyone has a seat at the table (and when that table includes spreadsheets, snacks, and maybe a Pride flag or two).
📅 What’s Next: A Month of Stories, Struggles, and Strength
This month, I’ll be posting more about how tax intersects with LGBTQ+ history. We’ll look back at discriminatory tax treatment, how court rulings reshaped financial planning, and where gaps still exist today. But for now, I wanted to start on a high note, because celebration is part of the work, too.
So Happy Pride, everyone. Here’s to showing up, speaking out, and continuing to build a profession where everyone belongs, and yes, files their 1040 with pride.
Stay tuned for the next post in this series: “From Head of Household to Joint Return: A History of LGBTQ+ Tax Filing.”