LGBTQ+ & DEI
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been around a long time, and many businesses have embraced the concept to help with recruiting, staff retention, and client development. When done well, it’s a powerful sign that the business accepts everyone and treats them with respect. However, when done poorly, it can risk alienating the very people they aim to support.
One important thing for businesses to understand is that including the LGBTQ+ community in their initiatives requires intentionality. We’re past the point where a DEI policy alone is enough for the LGBTQ+ community to feel included. Clear language and explicit inclusion of terms such as sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression are essential.
In the past, it was often seen as too controversial to explicitly include LGBTQ+ individuals, so we gave some leeway. Over time, courageous businesses have paved the way for true inclusion, and now we expect it. In fact, if businesses do not explicitly include us, we often assume we are not included.
Here is an example of how you can draft a DEI statement to include the LGBTQ+ community so that we know we’re included:
“Our company is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for all employees, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. We value diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions, and we strive to create a supportive environment where everyone feels respected and empowered. We are dedicated to non-discrimination, acceptance, and allyship, ensuring that our workplace is a safe space for all. Through community engagement and visibility, we aim to represent and support the LGBTQ+ community in all our initiatives, promoting equality and belonging for everyone.”
As Pride Month is underway, many businesses are highlighting LGBTQ+ issues, which is fantastic. However, it’s crucial to remember that supporting the LGBTQ+ community should be a year-round commitment, not just a focus in June. True inclusion means integrating LGBTQ+ initiatives into your DEI efforts consistently throughout the year. It’s easy to spot the difference between businesses that genuinely support us and those that merely add a rainbow once a year. Let’s strive for continuous and meaningful inclusion, making a real impact every day.
