Creating a 2SLGBTQI+ Inclusive Workplace

An inclusive workplace strives to make everyone feel safe, respected, and able to fully participate, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Two-spirit, trans, and non-binary workers’ experience in Canada¹

72% have experienced workplace discrimination

49% have quit a job due to not feeling accepted

¹Egale Canada, Working for Change, 2024

What workplaces can do

• Provide education on how inclusion matters and is relevant in each person’s job.
• Have a process to review and address exclusionary practices.
• Ensure policies and practices promote equal opportunity, respect, and fairness.
• Develop programs to address bullying, harassment and violence, including gender-based violence.
• Provide access to private or gender-neutral washrooms.

Use gender-neutral language

Avoid accidental exclusion when addressing people you don’t know.

Use:

• Folks, everyone, guests
• Partner or spouse
• Pregnant person
• Parents

Avoid:

• Ladies and gentlemen
• Husband/wife or boyfriend/girlfriend
• Pregnant woman
• Moms and dads

Respect pronouns. Using someone's correct pronouns is a sign of respect, like getting their name right.

• Introduce yourself with your name and pronouns.
• Don't assume someone's pronouns based on their appearance. If you’re unsure, ask.
• If you make a mistake, correct yourself and move on. If a coworker uses the wrong pronoun, gently correct them.
• Avoid saying "preferred pronouns." A person's pronouns are not optional.

This is just a start. More on creating an inclusive workplace:

www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/psychosocial/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-in-the-workplace.html

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