Embracing Different Sexual Orientations: Gender, Inclusivity and Sensitivity

There are many institutions and organizations which are yet to acknowledge and include different genders and sexualities. However, few countries around the world are taking legal and cultural steps toward inclusivity. In 2018, the World Health Organization proposed to remove ‘Gender Incongruence’ from the list of mental illnesses.

Few cultures are yet to embrace the LGBTQIA+ community and as such the community faces backlash in such places. A recent survey by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation revealed that 46% of individuals refrain from talking about their sexual identity at their workspace despite recent legislative victories. Recognizing and communicating one's sexual orientation or gender identity is a process.

Few community members refrain from talking about their sexual orientation because of the following reasons:

• Fear of bullying - between 25% and 75% of LGBT employees face workplace discrimination,
• Religious or legal ramifications
• Negative reactions from their family, friends, colleagues, and the society

39% of LGBTQIA+ employees avoided engaging with their peers and supervisors at work, according to a survey conducted by Centre for Talent Innovation. It’s difficult for these individuals to dodge questions about their family; this can create undue stress as sharing personal details is seen as a sign of being credible.

It is vital to be sensitive and inclusive of all genders and sexuality. Avoiding homophobic jokes and conversations will contribute to acknowledging the feelings of the LGBTQIA+ community. Creating a safe space for people to express their gender and sexuality and normalizing conversations about gender and sexuality can fuel the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Who you are and who you love does only make you human!

Sanjushree V H
Psychologist
MediBuddy