Gay in the Workplace

With this summer’s vote to legalize same-sex marriage in New York, the presence of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in the office has been called “the last frontier of workplace equality.”

While no specific federal law protects these employees from being discriminated against by employers, the LGBT community has made great strides for equal treatment – in and out of the office.

“When I was at my [former job] with employees talking about our weekends, I’d be very vague,” Jacqueline Gares, series producer for national TV series “In the Life,” documenting the gay experience, tells PINK. “It wasn’t until I came into a gay work environment that I could slough those challenges off and not have to waste energy on concealing part of my life.”

While you can’t choose your coworkers, Gares says you can broaden their level of understanding of the LGBT community. That may mean coming out. “If you feel isolated, taking that first step may show you there are others who are LGBT

or interested in supporting that community at work.” This may also cause coworkers who use homophobic slurs to become more sensitive or aware, she adds.

As for corporate America, Gares says big companies are becoming more progressive, and many organizations are actively seeking more minorities, particularly LGBT candidates. Companies that actively support the LGBT community include AT&T, FedEx and Alcoa.

To ensure a gay-friendly work environment, Diversity Inc. suggests companies offer same-sex domestic-partner benefits, start a diversity dialog and endorse LGBT events and causes.

Those looking for LGBT support in the workplace can check out the EEOC, which enforces federal employment discrimination laws, and the Affinity Network, started by CBS to allow LGBT and allied employees the opportunity for networking along with personal and professional development.

Bonus PINK Link: Many executives have found being openly gay can lead to success. Here’s why.

By Caroline Cox

“Who sees all beings in [her] own self, and [her] own
self in all beings, loses all fear.” Isha Upanishad