please format the information given to look more like a research paper.

here is the guidelines to follow:

Introduction o Attention getter (use one of the strategies you have learned to engage the audience): o Credibility statement (why should we listen to you about this topic?): o Central Idea (thesis statementone declarative sentence): o Preview (state the three main points you will be discussing): Body (three main points and sub-points; please add bulleted sub-points as you go alongyou might have more than two sub-pointsthese are just placeholders. The body should have most of your content) o Main point 1 (one full sentence): Sub-point 1: Sub-point 2: NOTE: You can have additional sub-points, sub-sub-points, etc. In fact, there should be more but these are just placeholders. NOTE: You must cite at least one source in Main Point 1. Include the in-text citation. For example, paraphrase the source content or use a short quote and insert the in-text citation o Transition (state Main Point 1 and what is next: Main Point 2): o Main point 2 (one full sentence): Sub-point 1: Sub-point 2: NOTE: You can have additional sub-points, sub-sub-points, etc. In fact, there should be more but these are just placeholders.

Combating Prejudice and Discrimination Against LGBTQ+ Individuals

Prejudice and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals persist as significant challenges in contemporary society, impacting various aspects of their lives and well-being. Despite advancements in LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, biased attitudes and discriminatory practices continue to hinder access to essential services and contribute to systemic inequalities. This essay examines the pervasive nature of prejudice and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly focusing on healthcare disparities, challenges across different settings, and ongoing efforts towards equality.

Discriminatory practices in healthcare settings pose substantial barriers to LGBTQ+ individuals' access to quality care. Denial of coverage, refusal to acknowledge familial relationships, and mistreatment by healthcare providers are distressingly common experiences (Massey et al.). According to the Movement Advancement Project, comprehensive protections for sexual orientation and gender identity in health insurance are lacking in many states, leaving LGBTQ+ individuals vulnerable to discrimination. Efforts to reform medical practices have made strides, but persistent biases perpetuate misconceptions and hinder access to care, especially for transgender individuals (Massey et al.). Bias and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals extend beyond healthcare, permeating schools, colleges, workplaces, and public accommodations.

In educational settings, LGBTQ+ students face verbal and physical harassment, leading to feelings of unsafety and insecurity (Strunk & Bailey, 2014). Discrimination persists in colleges and universities, with biased language and acts reported among students and faculty. In the workplace, a significant percentage of LGBTQ+ individuals experience discrimination, termination, negative performance evaluations, and abuse based on their sexual or gender identity (Burns & Krehely, 2011). Discrimination not only harms individuals directly affected but also has negative implications for businesses, impacting productivity and employee well-being (Mallory, Herman, & Badgett, 2011).Despite ongoing challenges, efforts to promote LGBTQ+ inclusivity and combat prejudice have been underway.

Advocacy groups and professional organizations have been instrumental in pushing for policy reforms and raising awareness about LGBTQ+ rights. Public opinion polls reflect a gradual shift towards greater acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ rights over the years (Massey et al.). However, entrenched stereotypes and discriminatory beliefs continue to influence attitudes, highlighting the need for continued education, advocacy, and policy reforms to address prejudice and promote equality for LGBTQ+ individuals.

In conclusion, prejudice and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals persist as significant societal challenges, impacting access to healthcare, education, employment, and overall well-being. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from policymakers, healthcare professionals, educators, employers, and society at large. By advocating for inclusive policies, raising awareness, and fostering a culture of acceptance and respect, we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive.

Works Cited

Massey, S. G., Young, S. R., & Merriwether, A. (n.d.). Introduction. In Introduction to LGBTQ+ Studies: A Cross-Disciplinary Approach. Retrieved from https://milnepublishing.geneseo.edu/introlgbtqstudies/chapter/prejudice-and-discrimination-against-lgbtq-people/

Strunk, K. K., & Takewell, W. C. (2014, August). LGBT Bias and Discrimination: Occurrence, Outcomes, and the Impact of Policy Change. Report prepared for the Long Beach City Council by the Research Initiative on Social Justice in Education (RISE), College of Education and Psychology, The University of Southern Mississippi. Retrieved from https://osf.io/preprints/socarxiv/exrju/download