In honour of LGBTQ+ History Month, we’re recognising the strides made in achieving equality and representation in the workplace. As we celebrate progress, it’s also crucial to acknowledge the barriers that LGBTQ+ individuals still face and the ongoing work needed to create truly inclusive workplaces. In this post, we’ll delve into the significance of LGBTQ+ History Month, explore ways to be a supportive ally in the workplace, and discuss strategies for fostering inclusivity for all.
LGBTQ+ History Month commemorates the history, struggles, and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals. It’s a time to reflect on the contributions of LGBTQ+ activists, honour those who have fought for equality, and raise awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by the community.
One of the most effective ways to support LGBTQ+ colleagues is by being an ally. Here are some actionable steps to demonstrate allyship in the workplace:
1. Educate Yourself: Take the initiative to learn about LGBTQ+ history, terminology, and issues affecting the community. Understanding the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals is the first step toward being a supportive ally.
2. Use Inclusive Language: Be mindful of the language you use and avoid making assumptions about someone’s gender identity or sexual orientation. Use inclusive pronouns and terminology that respects and affirms LGBTQ+ identities.
3. Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Encourage your organisation to implement inclusive policies and practices that support LGBTQ+ employees, such as non-discrimination policies, gender-neutral toilets, and diversity training programs.
4. Listen and Amplify Voices: Take the time to listen to the experiences and perspectives of LGBTQ+ colleagues. Amplify their voices, validate their experiences, and be an advocate for their inclusion and representation in the workplace.
Creating an inclusive workplace benefits everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Here are some strategies for fostering inclusivity for all employees:
1. Promote Diversity and Representation: Ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals are represented at all levels, from leadership positions to temporary staff. Celebrate diversity and highlight the contributions of LGBTQ+ employees.
2. Provide Safe Spaces: Establish safe spaces where LGBTQ+ employees feel comfortable being their authentic selves without fear of discrimination or harassment. Encourage open dialogue and create a culture of respect and acceptance.
3. Offer Supportive Resources: Provide access to resources and support networks for LGBTQ+ employees, such as employee assistance programs, LGBTQ+ affinity groups, and external organisations that offer support and advocacy services.
4. Foster a Culture of Acceptance: Cultivate a culture where differences are celebrated, and all employees feel valued and respected for who they are. Encourage collaboration, empathy, and mutual respect among colleagues.
As we commemorate LGBTQ+ History Month, let’s commit to breaking down barriers and creating inclusive workplaces where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. By being supportive allies and fostering a culture of acceptance, we can build a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive future for everyone.
Remember, creating an inclusive workplace is an ongoing journey that requires continuous effort and commitment. Together, we can make a positive difference and build a more inclusive world.
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February marks LGBTQ+ History Month here in the UK, a charity that’s overall aim is to promote equality and diversity for the benefit of the public.
To celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, we are spotlighting creative, queer individuals. We spoke to London-based queer image maker, Asafe Ghalib about their empowering work.
My full name is Asafe Ghalib and my preferred pronouns are they/them. I’m a queer image maker born in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. Growing up I found that society didn’t see me as an individual but instead wanted to define me as a preconceived idea of who I was supposed to be. As a result, this created a distance between myself and my origins. I started to look introspectively to confront this social construct around gender identity and racial hierarchy.
I began to feel a sense of community when exploring the different ways in which I could express my gender without the notion of someone dictating what’s right and what’s wrong. Without being taught to be scared of what could actually set us free. I don’t care about society’s expectations or gender norms. I just want to be me.
My main inspiration draws directly from the queer community and those figures who came before us and paved the way for the queer movement today. It’s at the heart of what I do and what I want to show the world, bringing to light historically misrepresented communities. People such as Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera and Lavrne Cox are some notable mentions due to their incredible activism and outspoken voices for the LGBTOIA+ community.
I was one of the winners and the Story cover for British Journal of Photography “Ones to Watch” and recently, the Creative Review editorial team selected me as one of the photographers that have made an impact over the past 12 months as their Zeitgeist winners. This year my project called Queer Immigrants has been selected by the jury of the PROFIFOTO NEW TALENT AWARD 23/1 as first prize winner in Germany.
Music is one of the biggest sources of inspiration and relaxation to me. I love finding and discovering new music to be on the playlists for my future projects. I love to put on some music and dance and feel the words that the artist is trying to convey at the time. I also have a dog named Otis who has been my companion for about two years now and being able to take him around and explore the country is also a big hobby of mine, going camping and being in touch with the great outdoors. I also love exploring new work in galleries and seeing what the scene has to offer, be it my friends’ exhibitions and supporting their art or discovering new work which also inspires me further.
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