October is LGBTQ History Month and October 11th is National Coming Out Day—is your organization doing anything to create a more welcoming and inclusive workplace during this time?
Over the years I’ve worked with many companies that have brought me in during the month of October as a keynote, workshop presenter, or panelist. The general purpose of these events is to have attendees gain new understanding about the LGBTQ community and for employees to contemplate how they can be allies and work towards creating a better environment—no matter how they identify.
Some people incorrectly assume there is not much work that still needs to be done in the United States. With the passing of same-sex marriage, more openly LGBT public figures and politicians, and your crotchety uncle finally referring to Catilyn Jenner with female pronouns, is there really anything more to even discuss? The answer: ABSOLUTELY. Very recent statistics indicate nearly half of all LGBTQ employees are closeted in their workplace. Parents of LGBTQ children still live in fear knowing their kids are 5-10x more likely than their non-LGBTQ peers to be bullied, assaulted, and consider attempting suicide. It is still legal to fire someone because they are LGBTQ in 28 states. There is still so much work to be done. We need to keep the conversation going and continue growing the number of allies who can join the fight and help right-these-wrongs. LGBTQ programming in the workplace is one great way to work towards making things better.
Is your company doing anything LGBTQ-related this October? If so, please share (in the reply section) what you’re doing to create positive change.
This work is my passion. For over a dozen years I have served as an LGBTQ leader and conducted numerous LGBTQ trainings, consultations, panels, and keynote addresses at top universities and Fortune 500 companies. I am humbled to share that clients say I am genuine, fun to work with, know what I’m talking about, and am driven by creating positive change. If your company needs assistance in this area or is simply interested in bringing a stellar program to your workplace, contact me to discuss how we might tailor something to meet your company’s needs.
To find out more, go to: www.tombourdon.com
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Consulting, Training and Coaching 