Feeling safe to come out as transgender can be daunting. There remain risks like the possibility of harassment, permanent changes to relationships, and fear of losing one's job. Being able to express your gender identity is a human right in Canada. It is up to us to make sure that transgender people feel safe in the workplace.
Here are some tips for understanding the difficulties of being transgender and encouraging empathy in your workplace:
Language
Being aware of gendered language and asking co-workers their pronoun helps create respect. We frequently use gender identifiers in all types of communication. When you speak at meetings or with co-workers use inclusive language for example: "We need someone to staff the desk" instead of "We need someone to man the desk". Check if forms or other documents have only a gender binary choice.
Bathrooms
Canadian employers must provide safe workspaces for transgender people which includes having a safe, comfortable bathroom. Employers can offer gender-neutral bathrooms or design bathrooms that are more secure. Here at SFU, there's a choice of both types of bathrooms.
Dress codes
If your workplace policy has a dress code, make sure they do not include sex-based differences and that the requirements are legitimately linked to the ability to perform the job.
The fluidity of gender identity
Some transgender people transition to their preferred gender. Others do not feel comfortable with the medical procedures of a transition. Others prefer to be gender neutral. Understand that there are no absolute categories in gender diversity and be open to the individual's experience and needs.
Medical effects of transitioning
If a transgender person chooses to transition, they face multiple surgeries and hormone therapy. Be aware that they will need time off for health-related issues. They should be treated the same as any other employee who needs time off for health-related issues.
What are the University’s policies on Transgender people?
The AD 10 policies (your terms of employment) has a no discrimination policy (AD 10.14) preventing discrimination, harassment and promoting understanding and mutual respect. It is based on the BC Human Rights Code which states that a person must not be discriminated against because of gender identity or expression.
The University has a clear procedure in the event of harassment.
Do you still have questions about inclusivity and gender diversity? Please join us for an Education + Awareness Session on Gender Diversity on March 25th.
Resources
https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-out-in-the-workplace-as-transgender
https://www.chrc-ccdp.gc.ca/eng/content/what-discrimination
https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-non-binary-revolution-is-starting-in-canada
http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/administrative/10-14.html
http://www.transrightsbc.ca/home/about-us/