Re: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex Inclusion
PRIDE in Diversity, since its launch, has promoted itself as Australia’s first and only not-for-profit workplace program designed specifically to assist Australian employers with the inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) employees. Recently, Pride in Diversity has discussed how the program can best support both transgender and intersex employees. In developing this position statement Pride in Diversity conducted several consultations with its members, and with independent organisations representing both transgender and intersex individuals.
Pride in Diversity: Position Statement on Program Coverage
A discussion paper was developed for the Pride in Diversity Advisory Committee for consideration. After consultation, a recommendation was made to the Advisory Committee and unanimously agreed. Our agreed stand on the program coverage of Pride in Diversity was based on the premise of inclusion and respect and we believe, represents the best way forward for the program. We also believe that this newly articulated sphere of coverage will provide the best outcome for LGBTI employees and for employers.
As a result of the consultation, we found that:
- Pride in Diversity needs to be an inclusive program that respects individuals who identify as transgender or intersex by not attempting to speak on their behalf, or by collectively grouping transgender and intersex needs and challenges with those who identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual; potentially blurring the lines of difference.
- We found general support from the transgender and intersex organisations / individuals for Pride in Diversity to educate, inform and raise awareness around transgender and intersex, in particular around differences and misconceptions to do with sexual orientation.
- Where this education was to take place, it was desirable that Pride in Diversity consult with transgender and intersex organisations about agreed definitions and any published content.
- There was a general agreement between the transgender and intersex organisations / individuals that Pride in Diversity, not having transgender or intersex representation should not stand up and speak on behalf of those who are transgender or intersex.
- Where detailed information, support or advocacy for is required for employees who identify as transgender or intersex this is best provided by the specialist agencies and access to them should be facilitated by Pride in Diversity.
- There was agreement that while LGBTI is a common “grouping” used to collectively represent gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex individuals, this is perceived by some to be tokenistic and while there are people who welcome the “grouping”, there are equally many who are uncomfortable with this grouping.
It was therefore agreed that to be a fully inclusive and respectful organisation, Pride in Diversity articulate the following statements of program coverage.
Transgender
- As a Pride in Diversity partner, ACON has had many years of experience working with the segment of the transgender community which forms part of the LGBT community, and the Pride in Diversity program believes that it has both the experience and a mandate to continue to incorporate issues for this group within the LGBT statement of coverage.
- Pride in Diversity recognises that it does not have the knowledge or experience to speak on behalf of the entirety of the transgender community in relation to issues that directly impact the workplace ie. matters of transition and support processes around transition. Pride in Diversity acknowledges the work of The Gender Centre in this area and will therefore refer to The Gender Centre as and when required to ensure that assistance will be provided by those with the appropriate experience and expertise.
- Pride in Diversity will build awareness of the differences between transgender and gay, lesbian, bisexual individuals into its program and will refer to The Gender Centre in relation to terminology and accuracy of any published content.
- We will respect the transgender community by not attempting to speak on their behalf. Pride in Diversity will engage The Gender Centre speakers to help build awareness and support our education efforts within the workplace as and when required.
- Pride in Diversity will incorporate transgender questions within its Workplace Equality Index and will refer these to The Gender Centre for guidance on applicability and importance.
Intersex
- As none of our partners (being ACON, Stonewall, DCA) or our Pride in Diversity team members have experience or expertise in supporting those who identify as intersex, we will not promote ourselves as an authority on intersex inclusion.
- However, PID will recognise, respect and support the intersex community by:
- Helping to educate and build awareness within its remit around intersex, in particular in regard to the differences between those who are intersex, transgender, gay, lesbian and bisexual. It is hoped that this education will assist in raising general public awareness and inclusion within Australian workplaces.
- Pride in Diversity will consult with peak intersex organisations in regard to definitions and any published documentation used in raising awareness or education to ensure its accuracy and acceptability.
- Pride in Diversity will call on intersex organisations for support, assistance and guidance in relation to any support required for intersex individuals within the workplace and will refer on for further support as and when required.
- Pride in Diversity will respect those who identify as intersex by not attempting to speak on their behalf only alongside, and with the support of, those individuals.
- Pride in Diversity will incorporate questions of intersex inclusion within our Workplace Equality Index, seeking input from intersex organisations in relation to the questions, their relevance and importance.
- Pride in Diversity will develop, build and nurture relationships with peak intersex organisations and individuals to ensure that the Pride in Diversity remains both respectful and inclusive.
For further information on the above statement, please contact: Dawn Hough, Program Director, Pride in Diversity (02) 9206.2136 or email: dawn.hough at prideindiversity.com.au
