According to studies, open members of the LGBTQIA+ community are happier and more productive than those who are compelled to hide their sexual orientation at work. However, some members of the LGBTQIA+ community still find it hard to be open and be themselves in the workplace.
READ: The country’s LGBTQIA+ community left reeling after second gay murder
The Best T in the City presenter Tbose Mokwele, celebrating international pride month this June, asked Kaya 959 listeners if their workplaces were LGBTQIA+ friendly, Aobakwe shared his experiences at his offices that everyone at work is very open and welcoming.
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The Best T in the City: Is your workplace LGBTQIA+ friendly? Motlagae
The 3 TSpoons on: How to Make Your Workplace More LGBTQI+ Friendly:
[3 TSpoons] How a Workplace is LGBTQIA+ Friendly:
🥄 They Make a clear stance on LGBTQIA+ discrimination.
🥄 They Support and celebrate the community.
🥄 They Listen and Adapt. #TheBestTInTheCity pic.twitter.com/1MnQ07Utev
— On the street. On the air. (@KayaOnAir) June 17, 2021
1. Make a clear stance on LGBTQIA+ discrimination: Employers need to ensure that they establish anti-discriminatory solid policies in every aspect of their company and ensure that their employees know about them. Like zero-tolerance to homophobia.
2. Support and celebrate the community: Every year, there are events worldwide to mark and show support for the LGBTQIA+ community. More specifically, for South Africa, it is the month of September. Organisation-wide celebrations and getting involved in these events will demonstrate a commitment to LGBTQIA+ rights. Like Flying a Pride Flag outside your building during pride Month.
3. Listen and Adapt: The struggle for LGBTQIA+ equality won’t be over for a long time; therefore, company policies and practices need to adapt to the changing times. The best way to do that is by listening to your LGBTQIA+ employees. Find out what’s important to them, what’s working and not working in terms of policies, training, communication, or interaction with co-workers, like having a Human Rights Committee meetings.
Companies need to ensure that they’re providing a truly inclusive work environment for all employees.
Remember, your employees are the ones who are experiencing your company culture every day. They know what’s working and what you need to adjust. So listen to them, and change and update your policies.
