GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Multiple, overlapping marginalized identities increase the risk of mental health struggles in LGBTQ+ individuals, according to Jazz McKinney, executive director of the Grand Rapids Pride Center.

“The more identities that are being oppressed, the more likely someone is to experience microaggressions,” McKinney said. “A Black trans woman, for instance, faces discrimination for being Black, trans, and a woman — those layers compound and raise the risk for depression and anxiety.”

McKinney said data shows a clear pattern: individuals with intersecting marginalized identities are disproportionately affected by mental health issues.

In the workplace, McKinney noted legal protections remain limited despite progress. Michigan’s status as an at-will employment state

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