➡️ Queerphobia at the workplace: How companies can make offices inclusive and LGBTQ-friendly
Queerphobia or the fear or hatred of queer people, and in some instances discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation, can impact one’s emotional, and mental health. “The disposition of queerphobia may range from mild dislike to a feeling of revulsion, hatred towards people who are sexually or romantically attracted to individuals of same-sex,”
“continuous conflict between minority and dominant social/cultural belief system leading to experiences like harassment, discrimination, victimization, mal-treatments, etc. further leading to physical and mental health suffering”. “This is why, organisations should develop some anti-queerphobia strategies, action plans, and practices that can counter queerphobia, inequality, discriminations based on sexuality and sexual orientations,
There is need of hour for a change in the mindset of people along with continuous and consistent sensitization, awareness sessions, reality checks, and interactions with queer employees. “Starting from sensitization and awareness sessions from experts, to reverse mentoring with the younger generations, and interactions with members of the queer community helps employees gain a better perspective and become mindful of their reactions,”
Queerphobia is not a new or unique phenomenon in India. But, many times, it is sub-conscious and stems from adequate information and conditioning,
“But, as organisations, it is our job to give all our employees, regardless of their age, gender, sexual orientation, caste, religion, an inclusive, bias-free, and safe work environment that allows them to be themselves,”
Check out the initial steps -making workplaces LGBTQ-friendly, companies setting up gender-neutral restrooms, making all policies gender inclusive, and even creating a community of role models and training leaders to communicate with empathy.
We run specialized training for managers to highlight bias and include LGBTQ+ sensitive language, to make all employees feel welcomed and an equal part of the organization,
Want to work together? Reach out to us at jyoti@cerebroplanet.com / 9870592991