If you’re planning to advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer fairness in your workplace, read on to get started, and find out how you can ensure your own protection while you work towards equality.
Identify Allies
In order to gain support for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer fairness in your workplace, it is important to build relationships with the key decision makers in the highest echelons of your company. Start by considering:
- Who in management will be supportive and who will not? Who is in charge of your employer’s equal employment opportunity compliance? Who will need to sign off on the new policy?
- Do members of your board of directors work at other employers with inclusive policies?
- Is your employer consumer-focused? Does someone in your business focus on diverse market segments, for example in your marketing or consumer affairs department?
- Does someone in your business focus on recruiting from diverse segments? Are there any internal problems that could impede policy changes?
- Are you in the midst of layoffs or restructuring? Is the board of directors in upheaval? Are you anticipating a change in company leadership? This information may prove useful in timing your proposal and directing your arguments to the people who can make a difference.
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