Many organizations recognize the exclusion of people based on differences creates division among employees and diminishes productivity and work satisfaction. For these reasons, and perhaps because they feel a natural obligation to treat all employees equally, many organizations include nondiscrimination language in their organizational policies and practices. Such policies include language prohibiting discrimination based on race, religion, gender, age, or sexual orientation.
Unfortunately, these policies are inadequate for employees who are not covered by those categories. In particular, individuals who do not conform to gender stereotypes are not protected or recognized by many organizations and, as a result, become marginalized employees.
The Gender ExpressionToolkit offers some useful information including suggested language for company policies and procedures, information employees and employers should know about gender identity and employee discrimination, definitions, and recourses. The goal is of the toolkit is simple: it should help your organization take equality to the next level.
