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WASHINGTON — New York will soon be the first state in the country to offer veterans’ services staff all certified in LGBT cultural competency, the Modern Military Association of America announced this week.

Its Rainbow Shield program will provide LGBT and HIV-positive competency training to the entire New York State Division of Veterans’ Services. About 90 of the division’s employees will receive the Association’s training.

“We’re proud to work with the state of New York to help ensure their services providers have a greater understanding of the unique challenges the LGBTQ military and veteran community face,” said Andy Blevins, Association director.

Topics to be covered in the Rainbow Shield certification program include an overview of the history and demographics of the LGBTQ and HIV-positive military and veteran community; terminology and common experiences of the LGBTQ and HIV-positive military and veteran community; myths and stereotypes that impact how LGBTQ and HIV-positive people are seen and treated in society, including how to recognize and see past harmful representations; and policies impacting LGBTQ and HIV-positive service members, veterans, and their families.