Being an LGBTQ+ ally is about helping to create an inclusive environment where everyone can be themselves. Discrimination is the leading cause of poor performance and decline in mental health. By employing these five concepts, you’re on the road to being an effective ally to LGBTQ+ people in the workplace.
/
Ascertain
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
To be a good ally, you first need to learn about the LGBTQ+ community. Understanding what “LGBTQ+” means is a great place to start.
“Many LGBTQ+ people use labels to express who they are. These labels can help listeners like you and me understand who that person is and how they wish to identify” – It Gets Better Project”
Download this PDF to discover the LGBTQ+ Glossary:
https://itgetsbetter.org/blog/lesson/glossary/
.
Aware
BE INCLUSIVE AND SUPPORTIVE
- One’s gender and sexual orientation are parts of their unique identity; therefore, generalising their experiences can be perceived as discriminating and offensive.
- Refrain from making jokes.
- Get to know your colleagues on a personal level rather than reducing your colleagues to their gender or sexual orientation. Discuss hobbies, life, family, etc…
- Respect boundaries. Never pry co-workers with private or medical matters. Knowing information about someone is not your place to share with others.
.
Advocate
TEAMWORK IS DREAMWORK
- Stand up, if someone at work makes an inappropriate comment that could intentionally offend an LGBTQ+ employee, take the necessary steps to report this. (Report to HR)
- Make sure to use their preferred pronouns and encourage the same with other work colleagues.
.
Acknowledge & Apologise
MAKE ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
It is easy to make mistakes. We are all human. Everyone from time to time makes a mistake in conversation; however, if you take the time to connect with the person and clear up any misunderstandings, it will allow for a safer, more inclusive environment going forward. The appropriate thing to do is to talk to this co-worker in private, acknowledge your mistake, apologize, and try very hard not to make this mistake again.
A good way to avoid this mistake is to address pronouns by sharing yours the first time you meet a new colleague.
.
Conclusion
By employing these five concepts, you’re on the road to being an effective ally to LGBTQ+ people in the workplace. The ultimate rule? Treat others how you want to be treated.
Love is Love – Pride 2021