Explore our collection of books focusing on LGBTQ+ themes and other diverse topics here.
The landscape of small businesses is predominantly occupied by straight individuals, with a mere fraction being owned and operated by members of the LGBTQ+ community. This includes the publishing industry, where only a handful of publishing houses are LGBTQ+ owned. Publish Your Purpose, founded and led by queer CEO Jenn T. Grace, is committed to uplifting LGBTQ+ voices and providing a platform for their stories.
The Landscape of LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses
According to a report from the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, out of 28 million small businesses in the U.S., only 909 are certified as LGBTQ+ Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs). For a business to achieve this certification, it must be at least 51% owned, managed, and operated by an LGBTQ+ individual. This figure represents less than 1% of all small businesses.
Many LGBTQ+ individuals remain in the closet or fear workplace discrimination, contributing to the low numbers. Among the 909 certified LGBTBEs, approximately 67% are owned by gay men, 30% by lesbians, and only about 2.3% by transgender individuals. This stark gap highlights the need for more LGBTQ+ representation in the business world.
When it comes to publishing, the numbers are even lower. While there are thousands of publishing houses, only a handful are LGBTQ+-friendly, and even fewer are owned and operated by LGBTQ+ individuals. These publishers play a vital role in amplifying diverse voices and sharing stories that may otherwise remain untold. At PYP, we believe that sharing authentic, raw narratives fosters deeper connections and helps break the isolation experienced by many.
Personal Experience Shapes Our Mission
Unfortunately, workplace discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals is all too common. Our founder, Jenn T. Grace, has experienced this firsthand, which has fueled her commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Jenn recalls, “My first job out of college was with an insurance company. Being openly LGBTQ was a non-issue in retail management, but I quickly learned that being ‘out’ in an office environment put a target on my back. Surrounded by bigoted and homophobic views, I realized I was not welcome. Despite my efforts to change the culture from within over five years, I had to leave. I vowed that I would never allow someone to be treated as I was, and this commitment remains strong to this day.”
Promoting Diversity and Opportunities for LGBTQ+ Individuals
At PYP, we are dedicated to building a diverse team that empowers our authors to share their stories. We ensure that everyone who works with us is treated equitably, regardless of their background. Our team comprises both LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, all focused on providing opportunities for diverse voices.
We actively seek to tell stories that larger publishing houses often deem “risky” and provide opportunities for those whose narratives might otherwise be overlooked. Many publishers target specific demographics, leading to the rejection of compelling LGBTQ+ stories that don’t fit their mold. As an LGBTQ+-owned and operated business, PYP understands the significance of sharing these narratives.
While LGBTQ+ voices are becoming more prominent, this progress is the result of years of hard work by LGBTQ+ advocates. Diverse leaders have pushed for inclusivity across all sectors, paving the way for more LGBTQ+ owned businesses and diverse workplace environments.
PYP is committed to continuing this journey and fostering inclusive communities by helping diverse individuals share their stories. Our roster of authors reflects this commitment, as we work with all types of writers, including those who may not outwardly appear diverse. We welcome anyone striving to make a positive impact in the world.
If you have a story to tell and want to share it with the world, contact Publish Your Purpose today!
