Our Interview With Tandra LaGrone, Chief Executive Officer at In Our Own Voices, Inc

Tandra LaGrone is a chief executive officer at In Our Own Voices, Inc, the Capital District nonprofit working to ensure the physical, mental, spiritual, political, cultural and economic survival and growth of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people of color communities. She considers herself an activist, organizer and cultural critic.

What makes the work at In Our Own Voices unique in advancing LGBTQ health and equity?‍

At In Our Own Voices, our work is grounded in the lived experiences of LGBTQ people of color. We don’t just provide services—we create safe, affirming spaces where community members are seen, valued, and celebrated. What makes us unique is our holistic, culturally responsive approach: addressing health not only through clinical care but also through housing, food access, advocacy, and community empowerment. We recognize that health equity is inseparable from racial, economic, and social justice, so our programs intentionally disrupt systemic barriers while uplifting resilience. By centering the voices of those most marginalized, IOOV ensures that LGBTQ health work is not a one-size-fits-all model, but a dynamic movement toward equity, healing, and dignity for every individual we serve.

What lessons or qualities should future doctors and healthcare leaders develop if they want to provide more inclusive care?‍

Future doctors and healthcare leaders must cultivate cultural humility, empathy, and a deep commitment to equity. Inclusive care begins with listening—truly hearing the stories of LGBTQ patients, especially those of color, and allowing those voices to guide treatment. It also requires courage to challenge bias, both personal and institutional, and a willingness to unlearn harmful assumptions. Healthcare leaders should embrace intersectionality, recognizing how race, class, gender identity, and sexuality intersect to shape health outcomes. Equally important is advocacy: fighting for policies that expand access, affirm identities, and dismantle barriers. At IOOV, we know inclusive care is about more than medicine—it’s about building trust, honoring humanity, and ensuring that every patient feels respected, safe, and whole

Inspira Advantage is proud to interview experts like Tandra LaGrone to help pre-med students understand the importance of culturally responsive care and inclusive support for diverse communities.