Virginia VA Hospital Employees Warned Against Wearing Rainbow-Themed Items

During the week of October 13, employees at the Hampton Medical Center, part of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Virginia, say they were explicitly warned by management that wearing or displaying rainbow-themed items—including official VA Pride lanyards—could result in immediate disciplinary action or termination. “Anything rainbow like lanyards can get us fired on the spot,” one employee told The Advocate, adding that the warning extended to any rainbow-themed accessories or apparel, regardless of whether they were issued by the VA itself or personally owned .

The warning, which employees say was communicated verbally and through internal channels, has sparked alarm and confusion among staff, many of whom view rainbow symbols as expressions of support for LGBTQ+ veterans and coworkers. Rainbow-themed lanyards are commonly provided by the VA as part of Pride and diversity initiatives, and their sudden prohibition appears to contradict the Department’s stated commitment to inclusivity .

The Department of Veterans Affairs has long maintained public commitments to providing affirming, inclusive care for LGBTQ+ veterans. The VA Hampton Health Care system specifically highlights its clinical training tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ veterans, including gender-affirming care, mental health services, and HIV prevention and treatment. The Hampton VA’s website notes its focus on “ensuring a safe, welcoming, and affirmative environment” and lists LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators as dedicated staff for support .

Nationally, VA LGBTQ+ Health Program policies require that health care is delivered in a respectful, affirming environment, and that VA employees respect each veteran’s identity. The VA’s official mission is to “build a VA that LGBTQ+ Veterans trust to provide affirming care and services to help them thrive” .

The warning at the Hampton facility stands in stark contrast to these commitments, causing confusion and concern among both staff and local advocates. Employees report feeling conflicted, with some saying they fear for their jobs if they continue to display symbols of support for LGBTQ+ identities. Others worry that the prohibition could send a message of exclusion to both veterans and employees who identify as LGBTQ+ or as allies .

No official public statement has been issued by the Hampton VA Medical Center or the Department of Veterans Affairs regarding the rationale for the warning. Employees note that the absence of clear, written policy guidance has fueled speculation and heightened anxiety among staff .

Local LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations and national veterans’ groups have expressed concern, urging the VA to clarify its policies and reaffirm its support for diversity and inclusion. Many point out that visible symbols of Pride, such as rainbow lanyards, play an important role in signaling safety and acceptance for LGBTQ+ veterans, who may face additional barriers to accessing care due to prior experiences of discrimination .

Legal experts and workplace rights advocates note that disciplinary action based on the display of rainbow-themed items may be subject to scrutiny under federal anti-discrimination laws. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination based on sex, which the U.S. Supreme Court has affirmed includes sexual orientation and gender identity. However, exceptions may exist for federal facilities depending on interpretations of uniform policies or government speech .

The incident raises complex questions about the balance between workplace policy, organizational branding, and the rights of employees to express support for marginalized groups. As of publication, no lawsuits or formal complaints have been reported in connection with the Hampton VA incident .

For LGBTQ+ veterans and their families, visible support from VA staff is often crucial in fostering a sense of safety and belonging in clinical settings. The VA’s own published guidelines emphasize welcoming all veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors, and note that bias and discrimination can significantly affect health outcomes . Removing rainbow symbols could undermine trust and discourage veterans from seeking needed care, advocates warn.

“Rainbow lanyards are more than just accessories—they’re signals that this is a safe space for LGBTQ+ people,” said one local organizer . Staff at Hampton VA say they hope the incident will prompt renewed attention to the importance of inclusion and clear, consistent policy guidance across the Department of Veterans Affairs.

As the story continues to unfold, employees and advocates are urging the Department of Veterans Affairs to clarify its stance on rainbow-themed items and to ensure that its policies align with its public commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Many call for transparent communication, written policy updates, and additional training to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Hampton VA Medical Center has not responded to requests for comment as of this report. The Department of Veterans Affairs nationally continues to promote LGBTQ+ affirming care through its official channels, but the apparent discrepancy at the Hampton facility has prompted broader conversations about workplace culture and rights within federal agencies .

Advocates emphasize that supporting LGBTQ+ veterans, families, and staff requires not just policy statements but visible, meaningful action. The incident at Hampton VA Medical Center serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing institutions seeking to foster truly inclusive environments for all.