PRIDE
Are companies doing enough to deal with LGBTQ+ discrimination at work?
Acceptance of LGBTQ+ Americans has been growing in the last 50 years but there is still a job to be done in the workplace.
As we celebrate Pride Month, it is essential to acknowledge the ongoing struggles that LGBTQ+ Americans face in the workplace. Despite significant progress in promoting inclusivity and diversity, many members of the LGBTQ+ community continue to experience discrimination, harassment, and inequality in their professional lives.
A recent report from Clarify Capital, a company specialising in business loans, highlights some concerning trends.
The study in more detail
Their study of over 1,000 employed LGBTQ+ Americans found that nearly 1 in 5 (18%) feel their workplace lacks inclusivity and diversity, and over 1 in 3 (35%) feel they need to hide their sexual orientation at work.
Furthermore, 16% of LGBTQ+ employees have experienced workplace discrimination in the past year, and over 1 in 10 (11%) have faced sexual harassment at work during that period.
Read more: How did Pride start and who celebrates it?
“We are hopeful that in five years’ time, the data will reflect significant positive changes in the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace,” said Merritt Ryan, Project Manager. “The growing awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community are key drivers for this anticipated improvement.”
Despite these problems, the vast majority (70%) say they feel satisfied with their company culture.