Inclusive workplaces for LGBT employees in India

BANGALORE: IBM, Goldman Sachs, Google and Community Business, a non-profit organization specializing in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), recently launched a new resource guide for employers entitled Creating Inclusive Workplaces for LGBT Employees in India. The publication highlights the business case for addressing the needs of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) employees and provides the cultural and legal context for LGBT issues in India.
As a practical resource, it also provides a set of recommendations on what companies can do to create inclusive workplaces for LGBT employees and includes a number of examples of good practice. The need to embrace diversity in terms of promoting greater gender equality in the workplace and ensuring greater opportunities for under-represented and marginalised groups is generally well understood by corporate India, the guide notes.
Leading companies both large local companies and western multinationals operating in India are beginning to recognise the business benefits too
the direct link that diverse teams and inclusive work environments can have on productivity and performance.
However, the subject of sexual orientation and gender identity has largely been overlooked. Regarded by many as a subject that has no place for discussion in the workplace and shrouded in taboo and stigma, companies - both local and international, have steered away from including this on their corporate diversity agenda.
In compiling this report, we recognise the sensitivities and complexities involved. said Kate Vernon, co-author of the report and Managing Director of Community Business. However with changes in legislation and the emergence of a more visible LGBT community - not just in India but across Asia, these issues need to be addressed, felt the initiative heads. By talking openly about sexual orientation and gender identity and its relevance as a workplace issue, the intention is to provoke a new conversation and encourage more open dialogue on this important topic.
At IBM we are proud of our long history of honouring, valuing, and promoting diversity and inclusion in our workforce," said Vanitha Narayanan, Executive Sponsor for LGBT (India/South Asia) and Managing Partner of IBM Global Business Services. Creating a culture where LGBT employees are valued, empowered to think freely and encouraged to express themselves fully, frees our colleagues to think creatively, producing dramatic and innovative outcomes for our clients. By working together to produce this LGBT Resource Guide for Employers we hope to encourage more companies to review their workplace policies and practices and drive positive change for the LGBT community in India.