We spend a significant portion of our lives at our workplace, our colleagues become our family, and our work becomes a part of our routine. It is vital to make our workplace safe and comfortable for everyone to work and mingle in. But the stigma associated with the LGBTQ community in our society prevents them from disclosing their identities. 75% of the employees have reported a negative experience from their peers during day to day interactions. Despite our rapid economic growth over the past decade, our mindsets have not evolved to accommodate everyone from all communities. A shift in our mentality is of utmost importance in our current work culture to make sure that everyone feels at home in the organisation. Studies have also shown that the millennials and GenZ are more positive towards the LGBTQ community over others. Our generation is undoubtedly evolving, but the stigma and myths are still very prevalent, leading to the LGBTQ community employees feeling neglected and unheard. HR professionals all over the world are updating their systems to formulate a more inclusive community, but without support from the employees, this will be a futile effort. We are listing out a few measures that can be included in the workplace to ensure everyone is heard and accepted.
Establishing anti-discrimination and nonretaliation policies. – The primary difference between diversity and inclusion is acceptance. Diversity is achieved when the organization hires employees from all backgrounds without prejudice and discrimination, whereas inclusion depends on how welcoming the employees are to their peers.
Awareness and acceptance – Despite advancing into the 21st century, there are seldom any conversations around the LGBTQ community and their interests. People tend to shy away from disclosing due to the fear of being ostracized and rejected by society. Spreading the word about the community and the importance of inclusion will go a long way in making them feel welcomed.
Gender-neutral activities – Our society has been accustomed to considering only the binary genders and ignoring the rest. Including them while creating activities and making provisions for them will help them tide the wave.
Protection from discrimination and counselling- It is essential to support the employees who come out. This will go a long way in making the environment safer and more inclusive for them.
Empathy and compassion – They have already suffered way too much at the hands of the stigmatized society. Lending a helping hand and a shoulder to lean on will help them feel comfortable with the team and the organisation.
Everyone is unique with their own likes and choices. Judging and discriminating against them based on this is absurd and unacceptable. Supporting our colleagues and peers, and not discriminating them based on their gender, colour, orientation, or anything else will be beneficial for you individually as well as the company as a whole.