LGBTQ2S Presence and Acceptance in the Public Relations and Communication Industries

The purpose of this thesis is to explore the subject of the presence and the level of acceptance of LGBTQ2S individuals within the public relations and communication industries. The secondary research reflects 23 peer-reviewed and non-peer reviewed academic sources. Surveys were conducted with LGBTQ2S industry professionals in the Greater Toronto Area. The results from this study suggest that LGBTQ2S individuals have a presence and are overall accepted well in the public relations and communication industries. However, while the majority of respondents found their employer cares about being inclusive, they also felt that more policies, procedures, rules and/or regulations need to be in place for LGBTQ2S staff. The primary research findings resulted in specific recommendations outlined to assist in improving the inclusive environment for the industries.