Written by Sreeja Adhikary
VIRTUAL WORK AND DISCRIMINATION
A lot of progress has been made towards LGBTQ workplace equality, but many still go to work with the fear of losing their jobs due to who they are and whom they love. Studies show that one in every four LGBTQ employees has reported experiencing employment discrimination. About 90 percent of transgenders have reported some form of harassment or mistreatment. LGBTQ employees have left jobs due to unwelcoming workplaces and mistreatment. Virtual work and remote workspaces can reduce this.
Currently, there are no federal laws protecting LGBTQ from discrimination. The government is working on Employment Non-Discrimination Act or ENDA, to ensure that all Americans are judged in the workplace based on skills, qualifications, and the quality of work. Till that comes into action, remote work is the answer. With improved technology and growing social media, remote work has become a legitimate way to earn while protecting your personal preferences. It provides a promising future while offering mutual success.
HOW DOES VIRTUAL WORK HELP
Virtual work reduces the anxiety of how colleagues and managers might judge you. Nearly one-fifth of LGBTQ have experienced discrimination based on gender identity while applying for jobs. About 21 percent of them have not been paid equally or passed over for a promotion. Working virtually frees you from the effort of hiding who you are, giving extra energy and mental peace for actual productive work. There is no need to downplay your authentic selves. This will not only take you towards career progress but also be advantageous for your employer.
There is no need to engage in friendly banter which can make you uncomfortable, especially if you want to conceal your orientation. Watercooler talks and coffee breaks or smoke break chatter is very common in most offices. Nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ employees have heard lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender jokes. Constantly hiding the truth during such casual meeting with colleagues can get stressful. Virtual work helps to avoid negative confrontations.
Having a virtual workspace boosts creativity by providing a hospitable climate which will boost your morale. Working in an atmosphere where you know that no one is judging you on any basis, other than your work quality, will encourage you to put up your best foot forward peacefully, especially if you are in the creative field.
Virtual work leaves a digital trail of data footprint. This helps to recognize and prove sexual harassment. Though some states lack the laws to take action, many employers are supportive and address the issue positively. This makes it easier to report bullying and humiliation.
Even as we see advances where people are supportive of LGBTQ, discrimination is prominent and critical in all walks of their life. Adopting virtual workstyle eases at least the mental stress of daily work.
To learn more about how you can become a virtual intern, click here.
Know a Business That is Struggling with LGBTQ Issues?
If you or a friend know an employer that is struggling with LGBTQ issues, pointing them to educational resources may help. This article points out 6 Tips to Create a Transgender Friendly Workplace.