With last week’s coming out declaration by Apple CEO Tim Cook finally settling in, I’ve started to reanalyze what it means for me to be out at work. I work for one of the “big five” banks in Canada in a non-influential role and I wonder if my openness about my sexuality has done anything to further the acceptance of LGBT’s in the workplace or whether it’s had any positive or negative impact to my current career.
With Pride Toronto 2012 less than three weeks away, it’s no surprise that the LGBT community is taking over all forms of media. After all, it is the largest gay parade in North America. In fact it’s the largest parade in North America PERIOD.
A lot of companies talk a big game when it comes to diversity in the workplace but do they really understand the meaning of ‘diversity’? Off the bat when I hear the word diversity I think of difference. It could refer to difference in religion, difference in political views and of course difference in sexual preference just to name a few. “Preference”- that word doesn’t sit too well with me but we’ll touch on that another time. My issue is with LGBT inclusivity in the workplace.
Coming from a country in which diversity wasn’t an option, I really appreciate the effort that employers put into making the work environment more welcoming and comfortable for everyone but I think there’s still some more that can be done. I’m not saying that some or most companies don’t do a great job of being inclusive and supporting their LGBT employees. I’m just speaking from my point of view and from what I’ve experienced. Continue reading
My Queer Agenda 