Occupational inclusion of the LGTBI+ community

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental values that must be promoted in all areas of society. In the work environment, it is essential to promote the inclusion of the LGTBI+ community to build fairer and more equitable work environments.

Diversity in the workplace is critical to the success of any organization. When the inclusion of the LGTBI+ community is promoted, an environment is created in which employees can be authentic, contributing to increased productivity and creativity. Diversity also provides different perspectives and experiences that can enrich decision-making and problem solving.

Current statistics on the inclusion of the LGTBI+ community.

Although we have made progress in terms of acceptance and rights for the LGTBI+ community, there are still persistent challenges in the workplace.

A recent Deloitte report attempts to take a global look at the issue of LGBT+ inclusion in the workplace. Although the vast majority (79 per cent) agree that there are attempts to promote the inclusion of people from the LGBT+ community by employers, 42% of respondents experienced non-inclusive behavior at work, such as sexual comments or jokes (33%), disparaging comments (25%) and even one in five felt socially excluded.

More than 80% of respondents who experienced these attitudes say that they receive these behaviors more frequently than their peers who do not identify as LGBT+. The majority (72%) of the interviewees who experienced non-inclusive behavior reported this to the company and were satisfied with the response. Those who did not report it (28%) decided not to do so because they believed that their complaints would not be taken seriously or were concerned about how they would be perceived by their colleagues, among other reasons.

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Measures to achieve real inclusion in the workplace.

It is essential to take concrete measures to promote the inclusion of the LGTBI+ community in the workplace. Here are some key measures that organizations can implement:

Inclusive policies and practices:

Establish explicit policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion, including protection against discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

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Training and awareness-raising:

Provide training to employees to promote understanding and respect for the LGBTBI+ community, eliminating stereotypes and encouraging empathy.

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Networks and affinity groups:

Encourage the creation of networks and affinity groups within the organization, where LGTBI+ employees can share experiences, provide mutual support and raise awareness of the challenges they face.

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Equal opportunities:

Ensure that all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, have equal opportunities for professional development and promotion in the organization.

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External alliances and collaborations:

Work with LGTBI+ organizations and associations to strengthen inclusive policies and practices, as well as promote a respectful and diverse work culture in society at large.

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The inclusion of the LGTBI+ community in the workplace is essential to build a more just and equitable society. Promoting diversity and inclusion is not only the right thing to do, but it also benefits organizations by encouraging creativity, innovation and productivity. By implementing concrete measures and promoting cultural change, we can move towards real inclusion in the workplace and create work environments where all employees feel valued and respected for who they are.

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