How to be an LGBTQ+ Ally at Work
June 27, 2022
As Pride Month comes to an end, we feel it's vital to discuss allyship in the workplace. It's not enough for organizations to wear Pride swag or raise a rainbow flag. Companies need to act to be true LGBTQ+ allies. We share our insights on how to be the best LGBTQ+ ally at work.
LGBTQ+ ALLY DEFINED
An ally in the workplace strives to ensure all colleagues are treated equally and equitably without discrimination. Work allies will help confront and solve any injustices directed at those who identify with the LGBTQ+ community. Allyship is a commitment to listen and act for those colleagues who might be excluded due to bias or discrimination so that they can actively participate in the workforce. Some may wonder why there is a need for LGBTQ+ allies in the workplace. With nearly 30% of LGBTQ+ employees reporting harassment at work due to sexuality or gender, colleagues and leaders must step up and provide a safe and inclusive workspace for everyone.
EDUCATE
It's not safe to assume that everyone knows how to be a good ally to their LGBTQ+ colleagues, so offering education is a great way to overcome this obstacle. People might think simply ignoring someone's sexuality, or identity is a way to be inclusive, but this thinking can be hurtful. Teaching employees how to be good allies is critical since sexuality and gender identity can be sensitive subjects. Educating staff about how discrimination occurs, how to stop it, and how to report it is a step towards inclusion. Sharing webinars, books, and insightful events can help educate staff on how to be the best ally for their LGBTQ+ colleagues. Educating your team not only to understand what to say but what not to say to their LGBTQ+ colleagues will help create an inclusive and safe culture.
COMMUNICATE
Clear and concise communication throughout the organization must convey allyship with LGBTQ+ colleagues. Creating policies that protect LGBTQ+ along with real consequences if violated is an excellent example of clear communication. Also, showing small gestures such as pronoun preference in email signatures is a gesture of acceptance. Employers can also use gender-neutral wording to acknowledge their internal and external communication differences. Equally important is employees feeling empowered enough to correct discriminative language when used, intentionally. Making derogatory jokes in the workplace is unacceptable, no matter the intentions. Overall, communication is paramount to being a real ally.
GET INVOLVED
Employers and employees can involve themselves with the LGBTQ+ community to show their support. Attending or sponsoring events such as a local pride parade shows your LGBTQ+ staff your sincere support. Talk with employees that are a part of the community and learn about events that are important to them and involve yourself if acceptable. Even if allies cannot join an event, showing support is a clear indicator of allyship and effort to understand the community. Allies can show support by wearing Pride-inspired clothes, celebrating specific days such as International Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31st, or donating to an LGBTQ+ charity. Involvement amplifies allyship.
ANALYSTS
Analysts believes in an inclusive environment where employees feel safe and accepted. Connect with one of our recruiters if you seek an empathetic employer with values that align with yours. We can assist you in identifying a company that best suits your needs.
