LGBTQ+ Donors
This page is supported by the American Red Cross LGBTQ+ Team Member Resource Group.
The American Red Cross is committed to achieving an inclusive blood donation process that treats all potential donors with equality and respect. On January 27, 2023, we received updated draft guidance from the FDA on blood donation eligibility criteria related to gay and bisexual men, which was shared in a news release from the FDA. At this time, the eligibility guidance has not changed and the below eligibility information remains accurate. Once the FDA finalizes their guidance and we are able to implement the new guidance, the information on this LGBTQ+ Donor Resource Page will be updated at that time. You can also view our statement on the draft updated FDA guidance.
American Red Cross Values
- Our top priority is the safety of our volunteer blood donors and the patients in need of lifesaving blood products. Our employees and volunteers are trained to be sensitive to the needs of all potential blood donors.
- The American Red Cross believes blood donation eligibility should not be determined by methods that are based upon sexual orientation. We are committed to working with partners toward achieving this goal.
- We understand that there is a difference between biological sex and gender. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance, “Revised Recommendations for Reducing the Risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Transmission by Blood and Blood Products” states, “In the context of the donor history questionnaire, FDA recommends that male or female gender be taken to be self-identified and self-reported.