Although job discrimination based on gender and sexual identity is illegal, there is still prejudice towards transgender workers in many businesses throughout the UK.
We all know that building a career is challenging enough in itself, so no one should feel uneasy about their gender expression in the workplace. Transgender individuals approach their gender identity differently, but it does not diminish their professional knowledge and expertise.
So how can one provide support to their transgender colleagues coming out at work?
Firstly, you need to know that your decision matters, and the way you treat your transgender colleagues largely affects the way other members of society treat them. You can either disseminate ignorance and hostility or advocate for equality and fair treatment. The choice is yours and your choice matters.
On a local level, you can try to make your environment more inclusive. There are several ways for companies to provide a more welcoming experience for transgender people.
One of them is to create a more welcoming atmosphere. No one should ever have to go through challenges or present themselves in a certain manner in order to receive acceptance from others.
Sadly, many transgender professionals should still need to take proactive measures to prevent workplace harassment. This often includes concealing their gender identity, postponing the transition, refusing to ask their employers to use their preferred pronouns, and leaving their jobs.
When it comes to gender transition, it is essential to receive moral support not only from your friends and family but also from corporate executives and coworkers. The phrase “support” refers to creating a safe atmosphere for transgender individuals so that they can freely discuss their concerns and feel like they are part of the workplace team.
Company insurance coverage should include gender transition treatment. Organizations can proactively enhance their insurance policies via corporate initiatives or direct negotiation with insurance companies.
Furthermore, businesses should make a concerted effort to avoid adhering to obsolete rules.
Some organisations, for example, still demand employees to live in a gender role that corresponds to their gender identity for at least a year before receiving treatment. This policy negatively affects transgender workers and, often causes mental health issues resulting in a dramatic decrease in overall productivity.
Therefore, transgender people should be involved in corporate discussions that directly affect them.
Finally, employers should strive to treat transgender employees with compassion, just as they would any other employee.
Use the correct pronouns, and if you are unsure, ask. If you make an error, apologise and try to be careful in the future. Remember that every individual has a fundamental urge to feel valued and respected, and each of us can contribute to creating a more inclusive future.
