LGBT Pride Month is June, to commemorate the Stonewall riots, which occurred at the end of June 1969. As a result, many pride events are held during this month to recognize the impact LGBT people have had in the world.
Since 2008, LGBTQ non-discrimination in Colorado has protected people statewide from discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity (employment non-discrimination for LGBT people was passed in 2007).
Federally, just one year ago (June 15, 2020) In a 6-3 decision authored by Justice Neil Gorsuch—the Supreme Court held that Title VII’s ban on discrimination extends to gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals.
By partnering with InTANDEM HR, you have resources for initial and continual reviews of your HR policies and benefits administration to ensure bias free treatment of your employees. A few other thoughts on revisiting your employment practices…
Review additional policies and practices that may discriminate against sexual orientation and gender identify or expression, such as:
- Hiring practices—background checks and reference checks may require applicant’s prior names that will expose them to potential employers as transgender. Ensure this information is kept confidential and not used against applicants. Results should always be stored in a file separate from the personnel file.
- Talk about talking—eliminate wording that assumes traditional gender roles and heterosexual relationships and families as the norm.
Participate in employee training
There are many resources for Diversity and Inclusivity training. InTANDEM HR has a great in person or virtual training for you and your team. During this training, employees can learn more about their colleagues and how they can support diversity and inclusivity to reduce bias and create a safe place for LGBTQ individuals to be their authentic selves and do their best work.
Also, track both successes and areas for improvement through methods such as employee surveys, exit interviews, employee grievances and discrimination claims.