LGBTQ+ Veterans

Oregon is home to a diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service and four generations of service members. Military service and the veteran experience continues to shape every generation of veterans differently – from the era and branch they served, to the pronoun they prefer. ODVA continues to work in partnership with local and federal government agencies, as well as non-profit partners to deliver veteran centric services, resources and benefits that meet the needs of LGBTQ+ veterans and their families. And to better serve you, the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs LGBTQ+ Veteran Coordinator office is available to answer your questions and assist with a variety of support services.

In many ways, the LGBTQ+ Veteran Coordinator serves a role similar to other veteran service officers, connecting LGBTQ+ veterans to federal and state benefits, such as VA health care, disability compensation, and pension, houselessness resources, and more. ODVA's LGBTQ+ Veteran Office is here to serve and support those interested in learning about and accessing veteran benefits in Oregon. Additionally, this office can assist with discharge upgrades and military record corrections as well. 

The LGBTQ+ Veteran Coordinator office works to build a strong community of and for LGBTQ+ veterans in Oregon, while also helping shape Oregon laws for the LGBTQ+ and veteran communities through advocacy and direct recommendations to the Legislature.

For assistance or to schedule a consultation appointment, contact the LGBTQ+ Veterans Coordinator at (503) 373-2327 (office) or (971) 720-9016 (cell) or ODVA_LGBTQvets@odva.oregon.gov.

Resources and Information

Breaking the Silence

Breaking the Silence: An Oral History of LGBTQ Veterans and Service Members is a groundbreaking film chronicling the lives and experiences of five LGBTQ Oregonians who served their country with honor — even though official military policy sought to prohibit them from doing so.

Breaking the Silence tells the story of our nation’s military that you haven’t heard, one in which lesbian, gay and transgender service members faced not only the risks that are common to those who serve, but also the risk of discovery, disgrace and even prosecution, simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. At great risk to themselves, their careers and their families, these courageous men and women chose to serve anyway, in silence.

Watch now as these brave veterans and service members are breaking their silence and sharing their incredible stories of courage, perseverance and sacrifice.

Washington County DAVS LGBTQ+ Veteran Outreach

ODVA is an Ally to our LGBQT+ veteran community, and our LGBTQ+ Veteran Services Office is here to support those interested in learning about and accessing their earned veteran benefits. Watch the video below, featuring ODVA Director Kelly Fitzpatrick and LGBTQ+ Veteran Coordinator Ian Michael, to learn more.