“According to a report from the ‘National Transgender Discrimination Survey’ conducted by National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and National Centre for Transgender Equality, transgender are facing double the rate of unemployment of the general population. The survey also indicated that majority of them are experiencing a serious discrimination and are unable to sustain themselves.”
The global scenarios in work place and work environ is changing. While there has been loads of awareness in the rights of Transgender and the like, little has been changed when it comes to their presence and scope on work front.
Although attitudes towards trans people have become more accepting and embracing but they still face prejudice at work place. The stigma associated with being seen with a transgender or with the fact that you are socializing with a transgender is immense. The major problem is rooted in the mind. The work places need to grow beyond the miniscule issues of gossip and “what society says” mindset. Also, the sneers and the jeering comments that automatically filter out of most mouths when dealing with a transgender need to be checked.
Most of the private sector companies (including some Fortune 100 Companies) are working towards full acceptance and inclusion and have started to cover gender identity in their non discrimination policies.
Why your company should choose to be transgender inclusive? Some of the basic reasons are-
• To hire and retain top talent
• To position the company as diverse
• To be aligned and compliant with laws and policies
• To enhance cultural competence
“Knowledge is power that can shatter myths and help lift the veil of ignorance.”
The root cause of this problem lies in the mindset and could take time to wipe off. However, it could get erased if genuine efforts are made.
Some of the “recommended policies and practices to foster a more transgender inclusive workplace” are as follows-
• Gender Identity needs to be included in non discrimination and non-harassment policies. Company Policies should be amended to stop ill-treatment towards trans-identified individuals in the workplace.
• Appoint a person who can take care of transgender related issues. It can be in-house or an external employee that has knowledge and training and who can address these concerns.
• While caste-based discrimination are being tackled via reservations and campaigns, the issue of transgender can be handled by raising awareness and creating quotas.
• Remove discriminatory health insurance exclusions.
• Create awareness and provide counselling to other employees by publishing text and video materials on Transgender Equality.
• Address such gender issues in the workplace effectively, and take measures to improve trust and teamwork and to dissipate fear and misunderstanding.
Transgender inclusion creates a respectful and professional work environment. It helps organisation to maximise teamwork and productivity and become a successful and diversity leader in its industry!
No comments:
Post a Comment