Morgana (Bailey) Bee

Morgana Bailey Bee is a human resources activist, keynote speaker, and LGBTQ advocate known for her work on workplace inclusion and authentic identity. Bailey Bee gained international attention after delivering a TED talk titled "The Danger of Hiding Who You Are," in which she publicly came out as a lesbian on stage, addressing the impact of hiding one's identity in professional environments. Her talk has been viewed millions of times and is frequently referenced in discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Bailey Bee has advocated for workplaces to reflect the diversity of society and for employees to feel comfortable being open about who they are. In her human resources career, she directed the Global Human Resources data management team at State Street, overseeing data records for tens of thousands of employees. She also served as a vice president in the Global Human Resources department at State Street Corporation and later as a senior learning technology configuration analyst at Whole Foods Market. Throughout her career, Bailey Bee has been a vocal proponent of the importance of being out at work and fostering inclusive corporate cultures.

Inspired by The Advocate article "Quantifying the Effects of Homophobia," Bailey Bee recognized the personal, professional, and societal consequences of silence regarding LGBTQ identity. This realization shaped her message on the significance of self-acceptance and the broader impact of authenticity in the workplace and beyond.

As a keynote speaker, Bailey Bee combines data-driven insights with personal storytelling, addressing topics such as "covering"—the act of downplaying aspects of one's identity to fit in—and offering practical strategies for "uncovering" to create inclusive environments. Her presentations focus on human resources best practices, LGBTQ issues, business leadership, social activism, social justice, and civil rights.

Bailey Bee has participated in performances with the Twin Cities Gay Men's Chorus and Heartland Men's Chorus, including the production "Identify," which explores themes of judgment and authenticity. She has also contributed to panels moderated by LGBTQ campus leaders and sponsored by organizations such as GLSEN, supporting high school and college students as they navigate issues of identity and community. Bailey Bee continues to speak across corporate, academic, and community settings, encouraging audiences to embrace authenticity as a means of fostering healthier and more open environments.