The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) held the LGBTI Pride Month in June to celebrate the contributions of its lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) staff. It was also to commemorate efforts to ensure USAID’s programmes and policies are inclusive of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or bodily diversity. While understanding and acceptance has improved globally, LGBTI people are far too often excluded, marginalised, and subjected to violence and discrimination. Inclusion remains one of USAID’s core values. USAID stands with those who promote more-inclusive societies. photo by hong menea