Choosing a LGBTQ FRIENDLY Workplace
When you are trying to decide where to work, consider your company's stance on LGBTQ friendly practices. You should create an inclusive environment for your employees and customers. Your business will be viewed positively if it is committed to diversity and inclusion. It is also a great way to build loyalty.
A good place to start is by checking the local laws of your city or state. In many places, being gay or bisexual is still considered a crime. However, in some areas, being LGBTQ is completely legal. There are even some countries that have made it a priority to be welcoming to all members of the LGBTQ community.
For example, the United States has some of the most progressive anti-discrimination laws in the world. This includes protection in the workplace, college campuses, and health care. Even so, anti-equality activists continue to have a strong influence in some states. The state of Illinois is one of the most progressive, according to the Human Rights Campaign.
Illinois recently became the fifth state in the country to require schools to include positive contributions of LGBTQ people in the curriculum. Moreover, in a recent law, all public single-occupancy restrooms in the state must be gender neutral.
Despite the lack of a state law specifically banning discrimination based on sexual orientation, Minnesota has passed a law against bullying of LGBTQ students. It also has a law against hate crimes. Though it isn't an explicit ban on discrimination on the basis of gender identity, it's a step in the right direction.
Several companies are taking steps to be more inclusive. For instance, several companies cover the cost of an employee's trip to a hospital to have an abortion. They also provide information about the different health care options available to LGBTQ patients.
The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) has a free-to-the-public listing of LGBTQ-friendly practices throughout the U.S. Additionally, the GLMA also provides resources for healthcare workers and providers. These include a guide to communicate effectively with LGBTQ patients and a library of webinars.
In addition, restaurants have started to take measures to LGBTQ FRIENDLY be more welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community. By updating their job descriptions, they are encouraging allies to apply for positions and making it more likely that an LGBTQ+ candidate will find employment. Another way for businesses to ensure that their LGBTQ+-friendly practices are effective is to post "Happy Pride" videos and content on the business's website or social media.
One of the most important things for employers to do to establish an inclusive culture is to provide a safe and comfortable environment for employees. Providing a welcoming space for all employees will allow them to be themselves.
Businesses can also encourage customer reviews to gauge the company's level of inclusivity. Having a qualified management team is another way to demonstrate diversity and inclusion. Also, a variety of websites rate companies based on their level of inclusivity.
Finally, be sure to ask your employees to contribute to an inclusive culture. Employees may have already developed a vision of what they want their working environment to be. If they are veterans, they may have the knowledge you need to make it happen.
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