As Pride Month comes to a close, it is important for organizations and individuals to remember that being an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community should be a year-round effort. While events and initiatives during June are important, the work towards inclusivity and equality should never stop.
According to a recent study by EY, LGBTQIA+ employees are still facing discrimination and microaggressions in the workplace. Therefore, it is crucial for companies to create a welcoming culture that supports diversity and inclusion, and for individuals to actively work towards being an ally. Here are three tips for being an LGBTQIA+ ally year-round:
1. Educate Yourself and Others
One of the first steps towards being an ally is to educate yourself on LGBTQIA+ issues, terminology, and experiences. There are plenty of resources available online, including articles, books, and documentaries, that can help you gain a better understanding of the community. Once you’ve educated yourself, you can also help others do the same. Share your knowledge with coworkers, friends, and family to create a more inclusive and educated environment.
2. Listen and Support
Being an ally also means being a good listener and providing support. Many LGBTQIA+ individuals face discrimination, harassment, and biases, and it is important to provide a safe space for them to express their concerns and experiences. As an ally, you can listen without judgment, offer support and empathy, and advocate for change when necessary.
3. Use Inclusive Language
Language is powerful and can have a huge impact on how we perceive and treat others. As an ally, it is important to use inclusive language that supports, rather than marginalizes, the LGBTQIA+ community. This means using gender-neutral language, avoiding stereotypes and assumptions, and using preferred pronouns. Making small changes in our language can make a big difference in creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
In addition to these tips, incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) tools and experts into the recruitment and staffing industry can also help promote diversity and inclusion. By using AI in candidate selection, companies can remove unconscious biases and create a more diverse pool of candidates. AI can also help create a more efficient recruitment process, allowing recruiters to focus on building relationships with candidates and creating a more personalized experience.
Overall, being an LGBTQIA+ ally year-round requires continuous effort and learning. By educating ourselves, listening and supporting others, using inclusive language, and incorporating AI tools, we can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all.