2. PROBLEMS FACED BY LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY IN THE WORKPLACE
Psychological
● Lesser representation of community in senior
positions suppresses their voices and demand
● Overhearing frequent taunts/gossips meant for the
community. As per a survey, 52.8% people
reported that this negatively impacted their work
environment.¹
● Lack of social support from co-workers
● Hesitation to come out due to the fear of losing
friends
● Feeling of pity at the workplace
Opportunities
● Looked at with lacking vital technical skills required
for the job
● Face restrictions while applying for jobs/promotions.
A survey by American Progress shows 27% people
face discrimination during promotions.¹
● Perceived as “too soft” to be a leader
Abuse
● A survey by The Guardian showed 70% LGBT
people are sexually harassed at workplace. ²
3. NEED FOR CORPORATES TO BE AUTHENTIC ALLIES OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY
● Diversity correlates with better financial performance. As per Mckinsey report ‘Why Diversity
Matters’, companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 35 percent more
likely to have financial returns above their respective national industry medians.³
● Brings diverse perspectives to business and could represent larger customer base well.
● With laws coming up to support the community, people will be more open about their
sexuality. Thus, inclusivity becomes crucial at this time; for industries to be looked as better
employers in terms of diversity, work environment etc.
● Its need of the hour. As Indian Corporates set out to compete globally, there must be
equal/fair opportunities for all, catering to global standards.
4. STEPS TO BE TAKEN BY INDIAN CORPORATES TO ACHIEVE THAT GOAL
● Specifying the prohibition of discriminative language and behavior in our Harassment
Prevention Guidelines.
● Establishing a fastrack complaint redressal mechanism
● Providing a platform wherein people of the community can discuss topics related to the
community and share pride sentiment.
● Promoting an informative E-learning program and certifying those who complete the online
exam as an “Ally” (an LGBT supporter).
● Training employees that conduct recruitment activities with basic knowledge of LGBTQ+.
● Installing gender-neutral bathrooms in office buildings.
● CSR initiatives can be taken up to spread vigilance among rural and Tier-II, Tier-II cities. This
would help create a confident, inclusive, and compassionate working class for Indian
corporates.
● Fun activities at workplace should include events that create open and more vocal space for
LGBTQ+ community. This could include showing documentaries/movies catering to these
issues, having open debates, speaker sessions etc.
