LGBTQIA Professionals
Out Front, Not Outcast
Too often, LGBTQIA professionals must choose between authenticity and opportunity. Whether it's being passed over for promotions, excluded from networks, or forced to mask identity to "fit in," the cost of being oneself in the workplace remains far too high.
At Three Feet High Foundation, we’re building a platform where authenticity is not a liability—it’s a leadership trait. Hidden GEMS connects LGBTQIA professionals with employers who are ready to embrace the full spectrum of identity, culture, and skill. Hidden GEMS is proud to support LGBTQIA+ individuals in presenting their skills, education, and professional experience in a safe, inclusive space—where identity is respected, and opportunity is real.
We actively build partnerships with LGBTQIA-affirming employers committed to creating respectful, inclusive workplaces.
The Hidden GEMS Solution
1. Identity-Affirming Profiles
Our platform allows job seekers to present themselves authentically while also protecting privacy and safety where needed. Profiles center skills, experiences, and interests, not assumptions or stereotypes.
2. Inclusive Employer Onboarding
Employers on Hidden GEMS are provided with resources and onboarding that promote LGBTQIA inclusion, including bias awareness, inclusive hiring practices, and organizational self-assessment tools.
3. Visibility With Choice
Whether a user wants to be “out” in their professional profile or prefers discretion based on past experiences, our system respects that autonomy and helps foster psychologically safe hiring interactions.
4. Curated Employer Partnerships
We actively recruit employers committed to inclusive values. This isn’t just a database—it’s a network of people building better workplaces.
Why this Matters
45% of LGBTQIA workers have experienced discrimination at work
Trans and nonbinary professionals face significant hiring bias and wage gaps
Queer professionals of color experience compounded exclusion
Inclusive employers report greater team cohesion and innovation
Workplaces that invite people to show up fully get the full benefit of their talent. That’s the future we’re building.
A Platform with Real Affirmation
Hidden GEMS is designed to give LGBTQIA professionals power over their narrative and protection in their process. It’s about visibility, yes—but it’s also about control, consent, and care.
This is workforce equity that doesn’t just tolerate difference. It moves differently.
Call to Action (Funders or Employers)
If you’re a funder or employer looking to build a truly inclusive economy—one that sees identity as an asset, not a risk—let’s build this platform together.
Workplaces Where You Can Be Fully You
Inclusive employment is about more than representation — it’s about equity, safety, and belonging. These organizations connect LGBTQIA+ individuals with affirming and empowering workplaces.
Resources:
Los Angeles LGBT Center — Employment Assistance: Offers career coaching, vocational training, and resume support for LGBTQIA+ job seekers.
lalgbtcenter.org/employment-assistance
San Francisco LGBT Center — Trans Employment Program (TEP): Nation’s first program designed to support transgender and nonbinary job seekers.
sfcenter.org/transgender-employment-program-tep
Out & Equal Workplace Advocates: Partners with major employers to advance LGBTQIA+ inclusion and leadership in the workplace.
outandequal.org