Hayley Fisher
Neuropsychopharmacology(2021) 0:1–3; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01047-w
Data show that representation matters for underrepresentedpopulations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics(STEM). Representation increases a sense of belonging [1–4],retention [1], and success [4–6]. It shows trainees what is possibleand what is welcomed within their chosen profession. However,sexual and gender minority [e.g., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,queer, and the many other affirmative ways people choose to self-identify (LGBTQ+)] visibility relies on self-disclosure. Unfortunately,~30–50% of LGBTQ+people in STEM [7] or in non-STEM workplaces[8] report that they are not out at work, meaning they are not openat work about their identity, with 35% reporting that they feelcompelled to lie at work to conceal their identity. The high rates ofnondisclosure are likely connected to LGBTQ+people in STEMreporting more experiences of harassment, social isolation, careerdevaluation, depression, insomnia, and minor health issues com-pared to cisgender (i.e., their gender identity aligns with birth sex),heterosexual peers [9,10].Professional academic societies have taken initial steps tocapture LGBTQ+representation among their attendees. TheAmerican College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ACNP) is onesuch professional society, made up of neuropsychopharmacolo-gists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and neuroscientists. The ACNPannual conference features leading research from preclinical andclinical investigators to promote a high-quality translationalexperience for members and nonmembers. Membership withinACNP is divided into different tiers that generally correspond tocareer seniority and achievements, including associate members,members, fellows, and emeritus. Membership is competitive withan acceptance rate of about 50% in 2020 as there are only a fewopen membership slots per year. Diversity within ACNP member-ship has been discussed, especially pertaining to male/femalegender and racial diversity. In 2020, ACNP added a voluntaryLGBTQ+affiliation question to its demographic profile (i.e., Do youidentify as LGBTQ+?), which is available to all members andnonmembers. People that chose to update their profile andrespond could answer Yes, No, or Prefer not to answer. All otherdemographic questions were mandatory. These data were de-identified prior to being shared.