Why is actively supporting the LGBTQ+ community important?

Discrimination and judgment still affects many LGBTQ+ people. In the UK, more than a third of LGBTQ+ staff have hidden their identity at work because of fear of discrimination, and this number is likely to be higher in other countries where same-sex relationships have only recently been legalised, or are still illegal.

• Nearly a third of LGBT young people in the UK would not consider a career in science or tech due to fears of discrimination.
• Almost a third of non-binary people, and one in five transgender people, don’t feel able to wear work attire that represents their gender expression.
• 16% of LGB+ workers feel psychologically unsafe in the workplace, compared with 10% of heterosexual workers. For trans workers the figure is 18%.

We want to create a world where everyone feels safe and comfortable at work, and this should include being open about their gender identity and sexuality if they wish. So the question remains: what can we do to help make the tech industry a more inclusive space?

Whether you are part of the community yourself, or you are an ally, taking the following actions can make a big difference to show LGBTQ+ people that you support them.

Small actions you can do to make a difference

1. Try not to make assumptions

Try not to make assumptions about people’s identities in the language you use. For example, using gender neutral language like partner instead of boyfriend or girlfriend can allow you to chat to people about relationships without assuming their sexuality.

2. Tell people your pronouns

If you feel comfortable, feel free to tell people your pronouns when you’re introducing yourself, both offline and online. This can be as simple as adding ‘she/her’ to your email signature or LinkedIn profile.

This little action will signal to people who may be nervous about expressing their preferred pronouns that you understand the importance of using the right ones. For many transgender and non-binary people, these signals can make all the difference in giving them the confidence to express themselves authentically at work.

However, it may not always be best to ask for other people’s pronouns – someone who doesn’t feel completely comfortable being out at work may struggle with this question, so it’s usually best to share your own pronouns and others will see they can do the same if they so wish.

3. Be visible with your support (even after Pride month is over!)

Try to find a way to show your support for the LGBTQ+ community actively. This doesn’t have to be a big gesture – something as simple as wearing a pride pin at work, or mentioning something pride/LGBTQ+ related over lunch, can be enough to create an environment where people know they will be accepted.

4. Educate yourself

The LGBTQ+ community is a vast, diverse group, encompassing many different identities, experiences and cultures. Taking the time to listen or read about experiences different to your own can make you aware of considerations that you had never even thought about before.

5. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes

We’re all always learning, and it’s okay if you don’t always get everything right the first time. Heteronormative and cisnormative ways of thinking are so ingrained into many of our cultures that it is very easy to make assumptions or slip up even when you don’t mean to.

The most important thing is that you are trying. So if someone tells you that you’ve made a mistake, try not to get defensive – instead, learn from it, and move on.

Let’s make tech a safe space for LGBTQ+ people

The tech industry has a long way to go before everyone can feel open and comfortable in it. But we are proud to be part of the movement for equality, and we hope you now know some of the ways that you can help the cause.

Happy Pride everyone!