Transgender Inclusion at Work: Combining Inclusive Structure with Inclusive Culture
In-person session offerings are on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is limited.
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This conversation will take participants on a journey from wherever they may be starting to champions of inclusion. We'll start with updated key language and vocabulary that are used in conversations with and about transgender and nonbinary people, and I'll share my personal story of coming out at 15. We will review current research around transgender people in the workplace, as well as the larger climate of transphobia and homophobia-as of writing this, there is a domestic terror watch for LGBTQ+ people, and 440 anti-trans bills have been proposed in 2023. We'll then move to talk through specifics around building safe and supportive environments past the level of just sharing pronouns. Building inclusive workplaces means building inclusive structures surrounded by inclusive cultures, and we will talk through many practical examples of this, as well as how best to respond to possible backlash. To close, Ben will open up to a 100% judgment-free Q&A for any lingering questions.
Learning Objectives:
- Leave the session with a strong knowledge of inclusive language and terminology for conversations about the transgender and gender non-conforming community.
- Understand the reasons for urgency in these conversations, and the statistical reality that just because you can't see any transgender people at your organization does not mean they are not there, just that they are not comfortable enough to come out.
- Leave with clear ideas for inclusive best practices to implement in their workplaces and will be equipped with the tools to respond to questions and backlash around these policies.
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All virtual sessions inherently run the risk of audio or visual issues due to factors out of our control. If any technical difficulties arise, we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work diligently to resolve it. All virtual sessions, unless marked as "LIVE ONLY" or "VIRTUAL LIVE ONLY", are recorded and will be available to view on demand until December 1, 2023.
Ben Greene
Ben Greene is a transgender advocate and educator who has spoken internationally on topics surrounding transgender inclusion. After coming out at 15 in a small town, Ben has devoted his career to spreading empathy, education, and storytelling around the trans experience, and has spoken for companies, hospitals, schools, religious organizations, and government entities sharing what it means to be transgender and how to show up as an ally. He is a fierce advocate for transgender youth, regularly speaking in their defense at the Missouri State Capitol, and is the author of the book "My Child is Trans, Now What? A Joy Centered Approach to Support". He is passionate about educating others from a place of compassion—no matter where they’re starting from.