All workers deserve a safe workspace. This includes being able to avoid discrimination and harassment.
Unfortunately, people in the LGBTQIA+ community are often harassed and discriminated against at work. Those individuals shouldn’t have to deal with these unwanted behaviors.
Types of discrimination
LGBTQIA+ discrimination at work can take many forms. Here are some signs of LGBTQIA+ discrimination in the workplace:
- Stereotyping: Assigning roles, tasks or expectations based on assumptions about someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity
- Disparate treatment: Treating LGBTQIA+ employees differently than their colleagues, such as by excluding them from social events, denying them promotions or assigning them less desirable tasks
- Harassment: Persistent, unwanted attention, bullying or other behavior that makes LGBTQIA+ employees feel uncomfortable or unsafe
- Unequal pay or benefits: Paying LGBTQIA+ employees less than their non-LGBTQIA+ counterparts or denying them equal access to benefits such as healthcare, family leave or retirement plans
- Discrimination in hiring or promotions: Refusing to hire or promote qualified candidates based on their sexual orientation or gender identity
- Ignoring or dismissing complaints: Failing to address or investigate complaints related to LGBTQIA+ discrimination or retaliating against those who report such issues
- Deadnaming or misgendering: Deliberately using an employee’s former name or incorrect pronouns
- Inaccessible facilities: Failing to provide gender-neutral restrooms or facilities that accommodate employees with different gender identities and expressions
- Rigid dress codes: Enforcing dress codes that are discriminatory or do not allow for gender expression can be a sign of discrimination, especially if they’re not necessary for the job
If you or someone you know experiences any of these signs of LGBTQIA+ discrimination at work, taking action is important. Filing a legal claim may be in order, so discuss the matter with someone familiar with these matters.
