The Economic Case for LGBT Equality

“Badgett uses data to show how equality is good for businesses, communities, and economies.” —Business Insider “This cogent account makes a persuasive case that everyone benefits from LGBTQ equality.” —Publishers Weekly “The author’s concise, sound arguments demonstrate why it is necessary to ‘expand freedom and equality’ across the globe. Both a convincing discussion and a call to reformative action for LGBT equality across economic sectors of the world.” —Kirkus Reviews “The denial of LGBT equality is morally wrong. Lee Badgett’s superbly researched book also shows the immense economic losses that result from this inhumanity. Eye-opening in its global scope, this book is a must-read for all business leaders and policymakers.” —Janet Yellen, Distinguished Fellow, Brookings Institution “Lee Badgett is the premier economist working on LGBT issues today—and perhaps ever. In this tough-minded, far-ranging, and accessible volume, she crisply articulates the benefits of LGBT inclusion across multiple domains, including education, employment, and health.” —Kenji Yoshino, Chief Justice Earl Warren Professor of Constitutional Law, New York University School of Law “One of the world’s leading authorities on the economics of the LGBT experience, Badgett articulates the importance of granting LGBT community members full and equal participation in basic economic, education, health, social, and political settings.” —Tony Tenicela, Global Leader, Marketplace Diversity and Workforce Engagement Services, IBM “No employer can afford to lose talent, no nation can afford to lose revenue, and no person should be marginalized economically because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. This book has the potential to persuade even the most ambivalent that LGBTIQ rights matter for everyone, and every person with power should read it.” —Jessica Stern, executive director, OutRight Action International “This articulate and convincing book for why fairness truly benefits us all should be read by all organizations, activists, and governments.” —Kasha Jacqueline Nabagesera, queer radical feminist and founder of Freedom & Roam Uganda