The fact that workplaces have become more inclusive than ever is undeniable. But there is still a long way to go before people from the underrepresented groups feel safe and are seen. Alongside the people of color, and women in the workforce, who still face bias and discrimination, the struggles of transwomen in the workplace to feel included, are seldom discussed.
Transwomen comprise a majority of transpeople, who face consistent discrimination. Studies reveal that one in four transpeople has lost work due to transphobia.
We need to end harassment, biases, and transmisogyny in workspaces for their job security and financial freedom.
Here are a few steps that organizations can take to make transwomen feel included in the workplace:
Fight ignorance: A transperson is one whose gender identity does not match their gender/sex at birth. They take steps towards transition— medically, socially, or both. Managers and HR leaders should educate the entire workforce on the what, why, and how of the underrepresented group. This is the first step towards cultivating tolerance and acceptance. People harbor ignorance and fear; the myths have to be busted and called out.
Clean up biases: To create a supportive workforce environment for transwomen, you need to welcome them in the workforce without prejudices. Companies are trapped in their affinity biases, and the workforce remains homogeneous. After identifying biases in your recruiting processes, you need a company-wide plan to eliminate them.
Trans-inclusive benefits and programs: Make sure that your organization offers trans-inclusive benefits. Not all trans women medically transition, but many of them do. The transition process includes taking hormones and having sex reassignment surgeries. While discrimination rates against transpeople are high, employers have an opportunity to help. Providing a healthcare plan for transgenders along with those for cisgender employees sends out a clear message that your company practices what it preaches.
Make the workforce ready: Even before implementing these steps, talk to your team about welcoming transpersons into the workplace. It’s not an easy subject and is tougher to contemplate and come up with honest answers or opinions. But it is one of the most important things to do. Reluctance from even a small group of people will make it difficult for transpeople to have a healthy working environment.
While more companies come forward to hire transpersons, protecting and welcoming them in inclusive workplaces, recognizing their potential is long overdue.
