Diversity is an essential part of our organizational life, and it is reflected in the people we teach, work with, serve, and share a community with. This includes differences that can be seen, such as race, gender, and physical ability, as well as those that cannot be seen, such as learning style, sexual orientation, mental health, religious beliefs, personal values, and more. To ensure that all employees are treated with dignity and respect, it is important to create a safe and inclusive workplace for LGBT employees in Central Missouri. LGBT stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. It is a broad term that encompasses both sexual orientation (LGB) and gender identity (T).
To guarantee that LGBT employees are included in daily activities and treated with respect by the rest of the staff, it is necessary to provide LGBT diversity training. This training should give employees with tools and guidance on how to act in accordance with the law and policies in the event of discriminatory behavior, intimidation, or harassment. Clayton County has explicit protections against employment discrimination codified into law. President Biden has also issued executive orders to protect LGBT employees from discrimination. However, these measures alone are not enough to ensure a safe and inclusive workplace for LGBT employees.
It is essential to go beyond the usual training scenario in order to create an environment where everyone feels accepted and respected. From the late 1940s to the 1960s, federal workplaces often conducted interrogations about one's sexuality due to fear of communism and national security concerns. This was done in an effort to “root out” LGBTQI+ employees. To prevent this kind of discrimination from happening again, it is important to create a comprehensive training program on LGBT diversity. This program should be composed of several levels and should be carried out with a clear plan and objective. Creating a safe and inclusive workplace for LGBT employees in Central Missouri requires more than just simple measures and regular policy updates.
It requires a comprehensive training program that provides employees with tools and guidance on how to act in accordance with the law and policies in the event of discriminatory behavior, intimidation, or harassment. By taking these steps, employers can ensure that all employees are treated with dignity and respect.
