Are there specific roots that influence the introduction and incorporation of discriminatory medical policies? What are the sources of such stigma, discrimination, and prejudice, in what forms does such discrimination take place, and what negative impacts does such hatred have on health outcomes, quality of care, and health disparities? Through a review of existing literature on this topic, intertwining the examination of the evolution of discriminatory policies and other explanatory literature in the United States, this thesis aims to answer the questions above, and explain the roots of such homophobic discrimination and its prevalence in the United States. Through the examination of changing medical and legislative policies over time, this review aims to dissect the evolution of the pro and anti-LGBTQ+ movements, political targeting of identity in recent legislation, and the challenges faced by SGM individuals across the country. From the Stonewall Riots to recent anti-LGBTQ+ policies, the LGBTQ+ community is historically and continuously discriminated against, erased, and ignored at all levels of education, still plaguing the community today. These issues not only affect health outcomes in the medical world, but also social development and performance in schools for LGBTQ+ youth, depicting an imperative need for inclusive education, safe spaces, and LGBTQ+ protections for youth and adults
