Embracing Change: How Communications Professionals Can Foster LGBTQ+ Allyship in the Workplace
Posted on Jun. 28, 2023 / Diversity & Inclusion / Subscribe 0
By Lisa Taylor
In this month’s PR News, Robert Conner’s story “Show, Don’t Tell, Pride Stories This Month” emphasizes the importance of companies genuinely backing Pride Month and the LGBTQ+ community. Conner’s call to action is clear: communications professionals must demonstrate their company’s LGBTQ+ allyship by vividly illustrating its efforts.
How can we effectively “show, not tell” our allyship within our companies? As communications professionals, we can make a difference through our words and actions, considering the cross-departmental nature of our work. With verbal and non-verbal communication expertise, we understand that words, actions and people carry weight.
As we commemorate the June 28 anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, widely credited as a turning point in the LBGTQ+ rights movement, it’s an opportune time to think about how we, as communicators, can be agents of change from within. Here are some actions you can take to foster an inclusive environment within your company:
- Words matter. Be mindful of the words you use and the impact they can have. Promote inclusive language and speak to everyone respectfully and professionally. Avoid stereotypes. Avoid assumptions, such as assuming someone in the LGBTQ+ community doesn’t have children. Use gender-neutral and inclusive language whenever possible. Respect and use individuals’ preferred pronouns.
- Actions matter. Show your commitment to inclusivity through your actions. Treat all colleagues, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity, respectfully and professionally. Encourage open dialogue and create a safe space for employees to share their experiences and concerns without fear of judgment.
- People matter. Acknowledge that your LGBTQ+ colleagues are valuable contributors to your company’s success. They are professionals who want to be recognized for the quality of their work, just like everyone else. Foster a welcoming and respectful work environment that appreciates their insights and contributions, treating them with the same consideration you expect for yourself.
These themes are universal, transcending barriers of race, creed, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, age or any other factor. They reflect a commitment to fostering a workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion not just during Pride Month, but throughout the year for all.
Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash
Written by: Lisa Taylor, Founder and Chief Strategist of Osprey Nest Enterprises, is a member of PRSA’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee and the Independent Practitioners section.
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