All lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer, questioning and ace (LGBTQ+) people deserve to feel free to be themselves at work.
It takes all staff to create an inclusive working environment, and LGBTQ+ networks have a key role to play.
The importance of trans allies
Allyship is a powerful tool for creating this organisational and cultural change. Trans allies can help create a welcoming environment by being vocally supportive of trans inclusion in your workplace.
They can also help raise issues around transphobia, alleviating pressure from trans colleagues having to advocate for themselves alone. To make the most of allyship in your organisation, you need engagement from all levels, from colleagues, to middle management, to senior leaders.
A trans ally is someone who isn’t trans, and is actively supportive of trans inclusion. This includes LGBQ+ people who are not trans. There are many different reasons why allies are passionate about trans equality. Some may have family members and friends who are trans. Others may have no direct contact with the trans community, but still feel a commitment to inclusion and equality in the workplace.
Steps you can take to engage trans allies:
- Allies may wish to get involved but not know about issues affecting the trans community. Consider if your network group can run lunch and learn sessions regarding trans inclusion. For example, a quarterly ally awareness session.
- Sessions could include a Q&A or involve presentations on issues the trans community may be facing. Panels can be especially effective in sharing personal stories.
The importance of trans role models
To learn more about trans inclusion, it’s also important to hear from trans people themselves.
Trans role models are members of staff who openly identify as trans in the workplace. By sharing their stories, visible trans role models can show all trans employees that they can be themselves, thrive and pursue further success with confidence at work. Visibility can also encourage trans staff that are not out to feel less alone.
Steps you can take to engage trans role models:
- Consider speaking to your network members about them sharing their workplace experiences as trans role models. You don’t need a special qualification or job title to become a trans role model. What’s most important is your lived experience and being willing to share that with others.
- Public speaking can be daunting, especially if you’ve not done it before. As an LGBTQ+ network lead, you may have developed presentation and speaking skills in your role. Upskill other network members with internal workshops and sessions, so they feel confident to get involved in wider trans inclusion work.
We are in a difficult climate for trans inclusion in the UK. It can be disheartening to see the challenges that trans people are still facing today. By encouraging your network to engage with trans inclusion, you can help cultivate a safe working environment for trans employees. Your organisation can work towards a culture where trans people to feel safe and free to be themselves.