Ask ReproJobs: How do I talk about my identity in a cover letter/resume?

Dear ReproJobs,

I see many job postings that encourage people from a wide variety of communities to apply. I want to bring up my identity and the marginalized groups I belong to, but every time I do it feels unnatural, or reminiscent of writing a college entry essay. How do I talk about my identity in a cover letter/resume?

– Don't want to make this awkward

Dear Don't Want to Make this Awkward,

You're not alone – a lot of folks struggle with how to bring this up, especially when the organization is predominantly white and you are, well, not. As with any job application, we'd suggest focusing on what you specifically can bring to the job, including the rich experiences and perspectives that come with inhabiting your unique set of identities. If you can and it's relevant, tie your expertise and knowledge, rooted in your identities, to specific parts of the job description. Explain how that makes you uniquely qualified for the job and will allow you to best connect with and support patients / communities / constituents.

It's hard to give this advice without something specific, so we'll make something up. Say you're applying to a patient advocate position at an abortion clinic. Instead of saying something like, "as a queer, biracial, non-binary person, I would be a great fit for this role" you might emphasize how those identities would help shape your approach to being a patient advocate, calling out some of the specific responsibilities in the job description. Something like: "Given the complex web of racism and sexism that are inherent in medical care in the United States, I know how important it is for clinical staff to reflect the communities they serve. As a queer, biracial, and non-binary person, I have experienced disparities and discrimination when accessing healthcare, and would bring those experiences to bear in fighting to make sure each patient receives the compassionate abortion care that [clinic] is known for." Or whatever the specific case may be.

You could also share how your identities and experiences have made you a stellar employee in the past, focusing on your accomplishments and great track record. You get the drift – help the person reading the cover letter see that your identities are a stellar asset that make you a kickass candidate who can bring what no one else can to the role. And when you land that interview – make sure to ask some questions about if and how they retain their "diverse" hires.
Love,

ReproJobs