Creating Trans Safe Spaces in the Workplace

 

Transgender safe spaces exist to provide a space for trans people. They are a place to feel safe from conflict and from being outed. However, creating a trans-safe space is not as easy as it seems. It takes a lot of commitment and time.

Creating a trans-safe space requires showing up and taking a position in support of the trans community. This means learning about trans people, their experiences, and their rights. Then you need to be able to listen and respond with compassion. In addition, you need to understand how to create a safe environment for your colleagues.

Fortunately, there are organizations that can help you create a trans-safe space. Some of them include the Unspoken Treasure and the Safe Space Training program.

Unspoken Treasure is a non-profit organization that provides a safe space for people to express themselves. The organization has an annual Transgender Day of Remembrance, which remembers trans people who have been murdered in anti-transgender violence. You can also join their events, such as their vigil at Bo Diddley Plaza on Nov. 20.

The Safe Space Program offers two courses, TRANS SAFE SPACE Trans 101 and Ally Training, which educate allies about the trans community. Both of these courses teach the basics of transgender identities, the history of transgender activism, and recommendations for working in solidarity with the trans community. Afterwards, you can purchase a Trans Safe Space sticker, which can be placed in visible locations to encourage others to learn more.

Creating a trans-safespace in your workplace is a long and ongoing journey. But it is worth it. When you set a precedent for others in the workplace, you are setting a precedent for the rest of society.

You can start by making sure your employees know about the benefits of being an ally in the trans community. A lot of companies, like Deloitte, offer transgender-inclusive benefits. Similarly, Aetna and Bain & Co. also offer perks that include health care coverage and access to social services.

A lot of employers are moving towards becoming more transgender inclusive. Oftentimes, employers don't realize how important it is for them to take steps to make their workplace more trans-inclusive. Employers can also speak out publicly in support of the trans community. These are all steps that can lead to a more inclusive workplace.

Ultimately, creating a safe space for your trans employee is a commitment that requires time and credibility. But it is also a place where you can grow. If you have a hard time speaking up, you can start by checking in on your coworkers. By listening, you will build trust and learn how to be a better ally.

The University of Rochester has a Safe Space Program that is a group of courses designed to reduce bias and ignorance in your workplace. You can participate in the course online. Approximately 25 minutes will be dedicated to the online module. Your instructor will explain basic definitions, the experiences of the LGBT world, and how to create a safe learning environment.