LGBTQ+ Rights

We have made great strides when it comes to being a more inclusive society and respecting all people for who they are. However, change rarely happens overnight, and we still have a ways to go. Communication, education, and love are the vehicles that will drive us forward into a more accepting future. (upbeat instrumental music) Let's start with the job search. It is massively important for you to familiarize yourself with the current laws in your particular state. That way you will know your rights as a member of the LGBTQ community. For instance, in Maryland, the state in which our company is based, the Fairness for all Marylanders Act went into effect in 2014, and it expended the state anti-discrimination laws to include gender identity. Researching companies is one of the best things you can do, and you have to ask yourself, do you really want to work for a company that is not fully accepting of who you are? Your research should seek out companies with diversity in staff and leadership, inclusive, non-discrimination policies, inclusive employment benefits, public support of the LGBTQ community, LGBTQ employee group, and finally, education and training in place. It's always recommended to read company reviews and have conversations with past and current employees if need be. Resume and interview. Many people feel adamant that sexual orientation and gender identity have no bearing on your ability to do the job. With that said, disclosing such information is strictly a personal decision. Some may want to disclose right away, others may want to wait to get to know their colleagues a bit. Use your preferred name if you are fully comfortable disclosing your gender identity. Otherwise, consider using your given name. Some choose to be more vague about their organizational experiences. For instance, saying something like, "anti-discrimination group," rather than the true name of the organization. Or you can just put the acronym of the organization with no further detail. But be prepared to feel questions and elaborate in the interview stage. Some employee benefit items that might be of relevance are domestic partner insurance, and PTO. And finally, however you choose to present the information, it is still important to be honest. Being a little vague is not lying, but lying can hurt your chances of getting the job. Dress code is the topic of much conversation, and sometimes, disagreement in the workplace. In this ever-changing environment, some companies are quicker to adapt than others. Most importantly, you should never feel discriminated against. If you do feel discriminated against, please do not be afraid to speak out. You will want to look for gender neutral dress policies that celebrate inclusivity and acceptance of all. While companies do have the right to decide their own dress guidelines, they should never be arbitrary or favor one gender over another. And the guidelines must be for legitimate business purposes, such as safety, uniform visibility to the public, or maintaining a certain image to clients. Starting work. Now that you've landed the job, here are some ideas to help you get acclimated, stay comfortable, and continue being a positive vehicle for acceptance and change. Join or create an employee group that promotes inclusivity and drives related partnerships. Communicate to your employer any training that needs to be implemented or adjusted. Lean on your outside community for support. Family, friends, LinkedIn groups, Facebook groups, et cetera. At the end of the day, we all hope to find ourselves in a work environment where we can feel comfortable in our own skin, and thrive professionally. Be who you are, love who you are, and remember to never settle for less than your idea of career fulfillment. (gentle instrumental music)