9 Gay Leaders Making a Difference in Technology

In industries the world over, many employees remain closeted for fear their homosexuality, bisexuality or gender transitions will cause peers and co-workers to think differently of their work. It's an issue in the tech space, too, where females and minorities are also underrepresented and often stereotyped.

Despite the overarching problem, many work environments have created cultures of acceptance when it comes to sexual orientation. Google covers the health insurance taxes of LGBT employees and their partners — a tax that currently doesn't factor in heterosexual marriages. Twitter has similar domestic partner benefits, as well as strict anti-discrimination policies.

SEE ALSO: Obama's Gay Rights Inauguration Mention Makes History

Aside from major companies going to bat for LGBT equality, individual executives, entrepreneurs and innovators are stepping out and proving they have the ability to reach the top. We've gathered nine examples of individuals who are not only accomplishing great things in tech; they're also active voices in the LGBT movement.

Who would you add to the list? Do you believe the tech industry is improving its culture of acceptance? Tell us where you stand in the comments below.

Homepage image courtesy of Facebook, Chris Hughes