Coming Out at Work
First off, let's not be naive - there are no laws on the books that protect an employee from discrimination based on sexual orientation unless you're a federal worker. Bill Clinton's Executive Order prohibits such bias in the federal work place only.
There are legal workarounds for the rest of us, but they are not specific to LGBT issues. If someone calls you a fag or dyke at work, it may be considered a hostile work environment under a sexual harassment filing, but don't count on it.
These are things to consider before wearing your rainbow shorts and I'm here, I'm queer, get used to it button to the next company picnic.
You know your job culture better than anyone and you know your life. I would never presume to instruct anybody to come out or stay in . I have stated many, many times - this is a personal choice that none of us has the right to make for you regardless of the political implications of an alleged agenda. If coming out in the workplace has serious consequences for you, screw the agenda - do what is best for you - period.
Having said that, most of the time being out at work is no biggie. In fact it makes you feel more included because now you aren't sitting silently when others discuss what their idiot spouses did over the weekend. You have an idiot spouse too and now you can talk about him openly.
My experience has been when you present yourself authentically, others embrace that truth within you.
Join us today | Chat & Forums
There are legal workarounds for the rest of us, but they are not specific to LGBT issues. If someone calls you a fag or dyke at work, it may be considered a hostile work environment under a sexual harassment filing, but don't count on it.
These are things to consider before wearing your rainbow shorts and I'm here, I'm queer, get used to it button to the next company picnic.
You know your job culture better than anyone and you know your life. I would never presume to instruct anybody to come out or stay in . I have stated many, many times - this is a personal choice that none of us has the right to make for you regardless of the political implications of an alleged agenda. If coming out in the workplace has serious consequences for you, screw the agenda - do what is best for you - period.
Having said that, most of the time being out at work is no biggie. In fact it makes you feel more included because now you aren't sitting silently when others discuss what their idiot spouses did over the weekend. You have an idiot spouse too and now you can talk about him openly.
My experience has been when you present yourself authentically, others embrace that truth within you.
Join us today | Chat & Forums
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