6 ways to build an inclusive culture for the LGBTQ+ community

Happy Pride month!

Pride Month is a celebration of love, identity, and equality, but also a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to create a truly inclusive society for the LGBTQ+ community.  

Unfortunately, 68% of LGBTQ+ employees report hearing negative slurs, jokes and comments at the workplace. This is unacceptable and demands companies to become more inclusive through employee training, non-discrimination policies, support and more. Everyone should feel valued and comfortable at work.  

In recent years, there has been a rise in what's known as "rainbow washing," where companies and organizations exploit Pride Month for marketing purposes without actively supporting LGBTQ+ rights.  

In this blog post, we will explore several key areas where we can be better and build an inclusive culture that goes beyond surface-level gestures.

6 ways to build an inclusive culture for the LGBTQ+ community

Employee training

One of the most effective ways to build an inclusive culture is through comprehensive employee training programs.  

These programs should focus on LGBTQ+ awareness, addressing biases, and providing education on sexual orientation and gender identity. By fostering understanding and empathy among employees, organizations can create a supportive environment that respects and values diversity.

Non-discrimination policies

38% of LGBTQ+ employees have reported being victims of harassment at work therefore implementing and enforcing clear non-discrimination policies is crucial to building an inclusive culture.  

These policies should explicitly state that discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression will not be tolerated. Furthermore, organizations must ensure that these policies are well-communicated, understood, and applied consistently throughout the workplace.

Inclusive language

Language plays a powerful role in shaping culture. Organizations should review and revise their language, including internal communications, customer-facing materials, and marketing campaigns, to ensure inclusivity. Avoiding gender-specific terms and assumptions, using inclusive language, and steering clear of heteronormative assumptions are steps towards creating a more welcoming environment for all.

Support in the workplace

Supportive workplace policies can significantly impact the experience of LGBTQ+ employees. Ensure that healthcare benefits cover transgender-related procedures and support gender transition.

Implement flexible leave policies that accommodate LGBTQ+ parents and employees with same-sex partners. Advocate for equal opportunities and fair treatment in career development and advancement to foster an inclusive work environment.

Transparency

94% of consumers prefer brands to be transparent.  Transparency is key in building trust and authenticity within an organization.  

Be transparent about your organization's commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion. Share diversity and inclusion goals, progress, and challenges with employees and stakeholders. When organizations are open and transparent, it helps create an environment where LGBTQ+ individuals feel valued and supported.

Align values with marketing and partnerships

Avoid "rainbow washing" and ensure that your marketing efforts and partnerships authentically align with your commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion.  

Feature LGBTQ+ individuals in advertisements, use inclusive messaging, and celebrate diversity year-round. Form meaningful partnerships with LGBTQ+ organizations and support their initiatives beyond Pride Month. Genuine representation and support can create a lasting impact.

By implementing these steps in the workplace, we can create an environment where everyone feels accepted, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves.

The Top 100 employee list

Each year Stonewall, the largest LGBTQ+ charity in Europe, publishes a Top 100 Employees list of companies who do good for the LGBTQ+ community in the workplace. Stonewall was founded in 1989 and is named after the Stonewall riots, an event which that transformed the gay liberation movement and LGBTQ+ rights in the US.  

Clifford Chance was nominated as the number one employer on the Stonewell Top 100 list in 2023. Companies like Sky UK, Pearson and Arup were also featured on the list. The companies are measured by their inclusion practice concerning policies, leadership, engagements and more.  

Let's take after these companies and work together to build a world where diversity is celebrated, and every individual can thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.