Tips for Creating an Inclusive Workplace

Tips for Creating an Inclusive WorkplaceTips for Creating an Inclusive WorkplaceLast Fridays historic Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges guarantees same-sex couples in all 50 states the freedom to marry and the right to have their marriages recognized in each state. While this landmark decision guarantees same-sex couples important legal rights, acceptance of individuals who identify as LGBT will leise take time. In fact, there is no federal law protecting LGBT workers against discrimination based on their sexual orientation. Although many states and municipalities have passed anti-discrimination laws, 32 states have not or offer limited protections, meaning that in the majority of states, workers can be fired simply for identifying as LGBT.Speakers at the MCCA Creating Pathways to Diversity Conference held in Washington, D.C. discussed ways to foster acceptance and enhance LGBT rights in the workplace. Below find tips to ensure that your firm or company is a welcoming pl ace for all employeesEnsure that anti-discrimination policies are included in companys official policies and employee handbookProvide Safe Space and Ally cards as a visible sign of inclusionEncourage employees to be out, if they feel comfortablePublicly support the Employment Non-Discrimination ActCreate LGBT affinity groupsEducate the HR department about how new laws impact benefits for married same-sex couplesTreat same-sex married couples the same as straight married couplesFOLLOW VAULT ON TWITTERVAULTLAW, INSTAGRAMVaultCareersandFACEBOOKRead MoreHave Wall Streets Gay and Female Diversity Policies Gone Too Far or elend Far Enough?The One Case BigLaw Firms Wont TakeBest Law Firms for LGBT Individuals