Workplace Pride Expresses Deep Concern Over Russia’s Supreme Court Ruling

Workplace Pride, dedicated to fostering inclusive workplaces globally, expresses profound concern over Russia’s Supreme Court designating LGBT activists as “extremists.” This decision poses a significant threat to the safety, well-being, and professional lives of LGBTIQ+ individuals in the region.

The endorsement of the justice ministry’s request to ban the “international LGBT social movement” reflects an alarming trend in Russia, marked by increasing restrictions on expressions of sexual orientation and gender identity, including laws prohibiting the promotion of “non-traditional” relations and limiting legal or medical changes of gender.

President Vladimir Putin’s portrayal of Russia as a defender of traditional moral values, coupled with the suppression of diverse voices, underscores the challenging environment faced by the LGBTIQ+ community.

This ruling raises serious concerns about the protection of fundamental rights for LGBTIQ+ individuals in Russia. Workplace Pride stands in solidarity with the global community in condemning the suppression of their rights, advocating for a world where diversity is embraced and celebrated.

The ruling contributes to the distressing list of over 100 groups labelled as “extremist” in Russia, heightening concerns about potential arrests within the LGBTIQ+ community. The ambiguity surrounding the court’s definition of the “LGBT movement” leaves room for misuse, further jeopardising the rights and safety of the community.

“From our own experience in Russia, and other countries around the world, we know that inclusive workplaces for LGBTIQ+ people foster economic growth, both for businesses and the countries they invest in.” said David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride Foundation. “For this reason, we call on our members and all other international leaders, businesses, and organisations to join us in condemning this ruling. We urge Russian authorities to reconsider and prioritise the protection of the rights and well-being of their LGBTIQ+ citizens who make such a rich and useful contribution to Russian society.”

Workplace Pride represents more than 120 multinationals, governments and academic institutions who employee millions of individuals globally. The Foundation is active around the world in promoting LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion and creating workplaces where everyone can truly be themselves.

David Pollard

Executive Director

Workplace Pride

Workplace Pride Affirms Commitment to Inclusivity by Signing #WorkingPositively Pledge

Country General Manager IBM Johan Heij, Kyra Keybets, Director of Staff at the Social and Economic Council, and David Pollard Executive Director Workplace Pride

Workplace Pride has reaffirmed its dedication to creating inclusive environments by signing the #WorkingPositively Pledge. Spearheaded by Workplace Pride Member IBM in the Netherlands, this initiative encourages employers to be role models in supporting individuals with HIV and chronic illnesses.

Prominent Workplace Pride members, including ING, Shell, Unilever, KLM, Booking, and Rijksoverheid, have joined the #WorkingPositively initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering diverse and supportive workplaces. This pledge underscores Workplace Pride’s ongoing efforts to champion inclusivity, emphasising the importance of prioritising the health, dignity, and rights of every individual in the workforce.

The initiative, part of the international Working Positively movement, aims to create a stigma-free, respectful, safe, and inclusive work environment for people with HIV and other chronic conditions. On World AIDS Day, Workplace Pride members proudly shared their commitment, marking the 35th commemoration of the day with the theme “Remember and Commit.”

David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, signed the #WorkingPositively declaration on behalf of Workplace Pride Foundation, emphasising the importance of a more inclusive working environment.

Companies are encouraged to join #WorkingPositively Netherlands and sign the declaration to contribute to a stigma-free work environment for individuals living with HIV and other chronic conditions. More information can be found https://www.workingpositively.hiv/

#WorkplacePride #WorldAidsDay #WorkingPositively #InclusiveIBM #Aids #Inclusion

ING’s Rainbow Lions Roar Loud: Celebrating 20 Years of LGBTIQ+ Empowerment and Progress!

GALA, ING’s Pioneering LGBTIQ+ Employee Network, Marks Two Decades of Impactful Advocacy

November 16, Amsterdam: In a vibrant and heartwarming celebration, ING’s Rainbow Lions, formerly known as GALA (Gay and Lesbian Association), commemorated two decades of relentless dedication to LGBTIQ+ empowerment and workplace inclusion. The event united founders, including David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, along with chairs and supporters from both the past and present. Together, they reflected on the remarkable journey of being ‘out’ in the workplace and envisioned the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Reflecting on Progress

The event was a poignant moment to reflect on the early challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals in the workplace and the incredible strides made over the past 20 years. The founders and chairs shared anecdotes of the network’s inception and the hurdles overcome to establish one of Europe’s first LGBTIQ+ employee networks. From those initial challenges to becoming an influential force advocating diversity, inclusion, and belonging, the Rainbow Lions have played a pivotal role in shaping a more tolerant and accepting work environment, both inside and outside of ING.

ING Group Executive Board’s Endorsement

Andrew Bester, Head of Wholesale Banking and sponsor and supporter from the ING Group Executive Board underscored the enduring significance of the LGBTIQ+ community within ING, emphasising its role as a vital and integral part of the organisation. He acknowledged the strides made and reaffirmed the commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

Expanding Horizons

From its humble beginnings, the Rainbow Lions have expanded their influence across various ING countries, becoming a symbol of diversity and progress. The network’s commitment to fostering an environment where individuals can be their authentic selves has resonated, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the organisation.

Looking Forward

As the Rainbow Lions celebrate two decades of progress, the event also served as a platform to discuss the future challenges that the LGBTIQ+ community still faces. Participants engaged in conversations about the ongoing work needed to address these challenges and continue the journey towards true equality.

Conclusion

The 20th-anniversary celebration of ING’s Rainbow Lions was a testament to the power of advocacy, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the LGBTQI+ community. Cheers resonated throughout the event, echoing the collective pride in the progress made and the determination to continue the journey towards a more inclusive and accepting future. 🌈🦁🎉

David Pollard, Marion Mulder, Martha McDevitt-Pugh, Dimitri Elve, Ezra Clarke, Francesco D’Argento, Kim L.

#INGRainbowLions #20YearsStrong #RainbowLions20 #INGGala #WorkplacePride #DiversityandInclusion

2023 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala Celebrates Champions of Equality and Inclusivity

Organisations Worldwide Recognised for Commitment to LGBTIQ+ Cause in Record-breaking Gala Event at Amsterdam’s Maritime Museum

Amsterdam, November 3, 2023 – The 2023 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala began in style as the renowned Belgian singer-songwriter and Eurovision sensation, Gustaph, took the stage to open the highly anticipated event. The talented artist represented Belgium in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 in Liverpool, United Kingdom, with his captivating performance of the song “Because of You,” which he sang to over 400 members of Workplace Pride at the Het Scheepvaart Museum (The Dutch National Maritime Museum).

Gustaph’s electrifying presence and musical prowess set the tone for an evening dedicated to celebrating and honouring individuals and organisations committed to the cause of diversity and inclusivity, especially in support of the LGBTIQ+ community. This was the 10th anniversary of the Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala.

WPP_Gala_2023-2 — View the 2023 Workplace Pride Awards Gala Photos here!

The Winners:

Network of the Year Impact Award – Accenture
Accenture’s Global Pride network was acknowledged for empowering employees to lead local change, promoting policy transformations, fostering a sense of belonging, and establishing a visible presence within and beyond their corporate spaces. Their Pride Employee Resource Group (ERG) creates an inclusive atmosphere and serves as a valuable resource, offering proactive feedback and ideas to enhance global initiatives.

Volunteer of the Year Impact Award – Razvan Bran (He/Him) – Lenovo
Razvan Bran, from Lenovo in Romania, was recognised for his exemplary dedication to fostering LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. He led workshops, volunteer activities, and advocacy efforts to educate Lenovo employees and the broader community about diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly with regard to LGBTIQ+ issues.

Media Outreach of the Year Impact Award – Shell India Mobility “We are Human, First”
Shell India Mobility was commended for its bold media campaign in India, aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding the queer community. The campaign highlighted Shell as an equal opportunity employer, raising awareness of the challenges faced by the transgender community in Indian society and advocating for their acceptance and inclusion.

Ally of the Year Impact Award – Terhi Kivinen (She/Her) – Kemira
Terhi Kivinen, Chief Communications Officer at Kemira, was honoured for her extraordinary dedication as a founding sponsor and executive sponsor, advancing LGBTIQ+ inclusion within her organisation. Her active participation in Pride events, support for LGBTIQ+ employees, and consistent championing of diversity in leadership set a remarkable standard for allyship.

Role Model of the Year Impact Award – Janet Visbeen (She/Her) – PwC
Janet Visbeen, a partner at PwC Nederland, was celebrated for her impressive career and openness about her sexuality. She has been a role model, actively supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion, setting up networks, and promoting self-identification within PwC.

Members’ Choice – Game Changer of the Year Award Helen Demosthenous (She/Her) – KLM
Helen Demosthenous of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines was nominated for her tireless energy and commitment to diversity and inclusion. She actively promotes D&I within KLM and has been fearless in advocating for equity and respect, challenging the status quo.

Global Benchmark Results:
The benchmark results for 2023 showcased the evolving landscape, with organisations increasingly responsive to societal changes and the needs of the LGBTIQ+ community. The Adovocates included Unilever, Sodexo, Shell, RELX Elsevier, PwC Netherlands, IBM, Dow, and Accenture, achieving scores consistently surpassing 90%.

Acknowledged as Ambassadors were organisations such as Nokia, Ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn & Sport, McKinsey & Company, KLM, ING, Deloitte, Cisco, Avery Dennison, Arcadis, and Aegon N.V., which secured scores ranging from 70% to 90%.

This year’s awards represent a significant milestone in the ongoing journey towards greater inclusivity and equality for all.

Global Benchmark 2023: A Triumph of LGBTIQ+ Inclusion in the Workplace

Organisations Worldwide Recognised for Commitment to Equality and Inclusivity

Amsterdam November 03, 2023. In a celebration of commitment to diversity and inclusion, the Global Benchmark 2023 is here, applauding organisations that have shown unwavering dedication to the LGBTIQ+ cause. This year’s benchmark results, which were announced at the 10th annual Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala, reflect the evolving landscape, where organisations are increasingly responsive to societal changes, particularly in their relationships with the LGBTIQ+ community.

Pioneering the Path to Inclusivity

The Global Benchmark for 2023 is a testament to the remarkable organisations that are not only reshaping their workplaces but also driving substantial societal transformation. Among the standout performers for 2023, we find:

Advocates: These are the organisations that have set the gold standard, achieving top-level scores, consistently surpassing 90% in the 2023 results. These top achievers, listed in reverse alphabetical order, include Unilever, Sodexo, Shell, RELX Elsevier, PwC Netherlands, IBM, Dow, and Accenture.

Ambassadors: Acknowledged for their significant achievements, these organisations secured scores ranging from 70% to 90% in the 2023 results. Notable names in this category, listed in reverse alphabetical order, include Nokia, Ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn & Sport, McKinsey & Company, KLM, ING, Deloitte, Cisco, Avery Dennison, Arcadis, and Aegon N.V.

Congratulations also go to those organisations who have made the greatest strides in LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion over the past year:

Most Improved over 2022 Global Benchmark score:

dsm-firmenich	+31%
Gilead Sciences Netherlands+ Belgium	+30%
Kite Pharma EU B.V.	+29%
Nike	+27%
Cisco	+26%
Avery Dennison	+25%

A Global Symbol of Inclusion

The Global Benchmark serves as a symbol of excellence in LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion across the world. It empowers organisations with valuable data, enabling them to assess and enhance LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion within their entities, regardless of their geographical location.

Each participating organisation is provided with a comprehensive assessment of their progress, categorised into eight critical dimensions: Policy & Communication, Employee Networks, Workplace Awareness, Support & Benefits, Inclusion & Engagement, Expertise & Monitoring, Business & Supplier Engagement, and Societal Impact.

Striving for Equality

For a deeper understanding of the Global Benchmark 2023 and to explore the detailed results, readers are encouraged to consult the full press release, accessible via the button below. This year’s achievements stand as a pivotal moment in the journey toward greater inclusivity and equality for all.

The Global Benchmark 2023 is not just an award but a beacon of hope, guiding organisations toward a brighter, more inclusive future for the LGBTIQ+ community in the workplace.

Download Press Release Here

Tech@Workplace Pride organise company visit to discuss “Out@Work”

On the 19th of September, Workplace Pride members were cordially invited to partake in a company visit to Eaton in Hengelo. Strategically coinciding with Coming Out Day on October 11th, the visit brought together participants from diverse tech companies for a deep discussion on the theme “Out@Work.”

Exploring Company Visits

The Tech@Workplace Pride community, as outlined in their 2023 strategic goals, has set a range of objectives. Notably, one of these objectives is to orchestrate visits to LGBTIQ+ communities within tech companies. The aim is to engage in fruitful conversations about the most effective Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) practices, while also incorporating an online participation dimension. Through these visits, Tech@Workplace Pride aspires to enhance visibility, shedding light on the remarkable diversity and inclusivity within the tech sector.

Connecting with Operational Staff

Initial steps towards achieving these goals were taken during the Workplace Pride conference on May 26th of this year. A follow-up initiative was launched during a member exchange session, seeking to bridge the gap in LGBTIQ+ inclusion between operational and office staff. The recent visit to Eaton facilitated fresh insights into efforts to align LGBTIQ+ activities with the production floor.

Journey Through the Production Floor

The visit began with an insightful “We Make PRIDE Work” introduction led by Eugén Ranft, Managing Director at Eaton Industries Netherlands B.V., and Barış Ekici, EMEA leader of the Eaton PRIDE iERG. Participants, dressed in safety gear, were divided into two groups to explore the production floor, gaining valuable insights into Eaton’s products and their dedicated creators.

Interactive Workshop: The visit culminated in an engaging workshop led by Marco Strijks, Liaison Office Diversity & Inclusion from Th!nk with PRIDE/Saxion University of Applied Sciences, and Renan Machado Cardoso, Global Inclusion and Diversity Project Lead at Eaton. The discussion revolved around three pivotal statements, seeking innovative solutions to pertinent challenges.

In Closing

“Out@Work”, organised by Tech@Workplace Pride, stood as a testament to the community’s unwavering commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion within the tech sector.

About Eaton: Eaton, an intelligent power management company, is devoted to enhancing the quality of life and safeguarding the environment worldwide.

Kigali Roundtable Advances LGBTIQ+ Socio-Economic Inclusion

Workplace Pride Partners with Dutch Embassy in Rwanda and Hivos to Drive Progress

This week, as part of the Free to Be Me Program, Workplace Pride, in collaboration with the Dutch Embassy in Rwanda and Hivos, convened the Kigali Socio-Economic Roundtable Discussion. This significant event brought together over 30 community members, diplomatic missions, and business representatives with the aim of raising awareness regarding socio-economic inclusion for the LGBTIQ+ community, initiating crucial conversations, and fostering commitment for future dialogues.

Download Kigali Roundtable Report

“Economic development programs are not reaching LGBTIQ+ people adequately or equitably. In our workplaces, creating an environment where everyone can be themselves is essential and should be the standard for modern businesses.”
Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman

During the roundtable held at the residence of the Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman, she emphasised the imperative need for an environment in workplaces where everyone can authentically be themselves, asserting that this should be the benchmark for modern businesses. Ambassador Wiegman stated, “Economic development programs must adequately and equitably encompass the LGBTIQ+ community.”

Key insights from the discussions include:

The demand for increased investments and resources to propel economic inclusion for the LGBTIQ+ community.
The recognition that more efforts are necessary to heighten awareness and transform narratives, positioning the LGBTIQ+ community as vital contributors to inclusive economic growth.
Emphasis on the significance of not only having inclusive policies but ensuring their active implementation to achieve comprehensive inclusion.

Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman with Levis Maina, Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at PATH

As Workplace Pride, we take immense pride in the resilience demonstrated by the Rwandan LGBTIQ+ community and remain steadfast in our commitment to drive inclusion, paving the way for socio-economic development opportunities for the LGBTIQ+ community both locally, in Africa, and across Asia.

#Hivos, #EmbassyoftheKingdomoftheNetherlandsinRwanda, #IrisVanNoord, #MarloesVanFulpen, #LevisNderitu, #AlvinAmbunya, #GrahamSparks, #AnneJellema, #SaidaAli

Workplace Pride Announces 2023 Impact Awards Nomination Shortlist

Date:October 11, 2023

Amsterdam, Netherlands – On this significant National Coming Out Day, Workplace Pride takes immense pleasure in unveiling the much-anticipated shortlist for the 2023 Impact Awards. These awards are a testament to the remarkable achievements of individuals and organisations who have gone above and beyond to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

View Shortlist Nominations

A Night of Celebration

The pinnacle of this year’s journey will be the Impact Awards Gala, hosted at the prestigious Het Scheepvaartmuseum in Amsterdam on Friday, November 3rd, 2023. It will be a night of celebration, recognising those who have shown unwavering commitment to creating more inclusive workplaces.

Exceptional Finalists

This year’s shortlist includes outstanding nominees in various categories, reflecting the dedication and hard work invested in advancing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Here’s a glimpse of the exceptional finalists:

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Network Award

This prestigious award honours the Workplace Pride member LGBTIQ+ network that has demonstrated outstanding engagement within their organisation and the broader community over the past year. The nominees for this category are:

– PwC

– Accenture

– Shell

These networks embody unity, collaboration, and impactful engagement, setting a benchmark for others to follow.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Volunteer Award

The Volunteer Award celebrates individuals from Workplace Pride member organisations who have gone above and beyond to foster LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. The nominees for this category are:

– Mike van de Langenberg (They/Them) – Van Lanschot Kempen

– Kaneesha Nadal (They/Them) – Kite Pharma EU BV

– Razvan Bran(He/Him) – Lenovo

These remarkable volunteers have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many through their dedication to inclusivity.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Media Outreach Award

This award acknowledges the power of positive representation in the media. It celebrates Workplace Pride members who have effectively highlighted LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion through media channels. The nominees for this category are:

– Can you see me campaign – Deloitte

– Shell India Mobility – Shell

– Pride matters. Every Day – ING

These nominees have played a crucial role in shaping informed perspectives on LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Ally Award

The Ally Award recognises individuals who have demonstrated unwavering support for inclusivity and understanding, both within their organisation and externally. The nominees for this category are:

– Vandana Verma – SLB

– Marijke Loonen – FrieslandCampina

– Terhi Kivinen (She /Her) – Kemira

These exceptional allies have shown extraordinary dedication to the cause of inclusivity.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Role Model Award

This award honours individuals who lead by example and inspire positive change, contributing to the creation of more LGBTIQ+ inclusive workplaces. The nominees for this category are:

– Janet Visbeen (She /Her) – PwC

– Sharron Cairns (She/Her) – Nike

– Yasmin Reis – Shell Brazil

These role models are trailblazers who set a path for others to follow, demonstrating the power of leadership in fostering inclusivity.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Members’ Choice – Game Changer Award

This distinguished award recognizes initiatives among Workplace Pride members that ignite societal impact for the LGBTIQ+ community. It celebrates projects or efforts that have the potential to move and activate people, leaving a lasting positive imprint.

The full list of nominations and more information about the Workplace Pride Impact Awards can be found here.

As we eagerly await the results and the grand celebration at the Impact Awards Gala, Workplace Pride applauds these remarkable individuals and organisations for their exceptional contributions towards a more inclusive and diverse workplace. Their dedication is an inspiration to all, and it reinforces the importance of diversity and inclusion in our society.

Challenges Persist: Bisexual Inclusion in the Workplace Still an Uphill Battle

Date: September 23, 2023

In the ongoing struggle for workplace inclusivity, the hurdles faced by the bisexual community remain a persistent challenge despite significant advancements in LGBTIQ+ rights and equality measures over the past fifteen years.

In an effort to foster inclusivity, hundreds of major corporations have made substantial strides by implementing a range of policies, benefits, and practices geared towards advancing LGBTIQ+ rights in the workplace. These initiatives have included the widespread adoption of non-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity, the introduction of partner benefits, the establishment of employee resource groups, support for supplier diversity, and active involvement in public policy efforts aimed at advancing LGBTIQ+ rights.

Nevertheless, bisexual visibility and inclusion continue to be areas where many workplaces fall short. While LGBTIQ+ inclusive policies and practices are undeniably pivotal in levelling the playing field within organisations, they alone do not necessarily translate into a shift in organisational culture. Recent research conducted by the HRC Foundation highlights this ongoing struggle. Their studies on the daily experiences of LGBTIQ+ individuals in the workplace consistently reveal significant disparities for bisexual-identified workers across various regions, industries, and age groups.

The persistence of these challenges underscores the pressing need for a more comprehensive approach to LGBTIQ+ inclusivity in the workforce. While legislative protections and corporate policies provide a crucial foundation, fostering a truly inclusive culture necessitates continued efforts to address biases, stereotypes, and stigmas that persist within workplaces. Only through concerted, ongoing efforts can workplaces create an environment where every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation, feels fully seen, respected, and valued.

In a recent event organised by Bi+ Netherlands network, held at ProRail on August 3rd, a glimmer of hope emerged. Iris Buizer and Prof. Dr. Jojanneke van der Toorn, who holds the position of Professor of LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion at Leiden University, had the privilege of presenting preliminary findings from their research on the workplace inclusion of bi+ individuals in the Netherlands. This event provided an opportunity for insightful discussions and an exchange of ideas on how to address the challenges faced by the bi+ community in the workplace.

Prof. Dr. Jojanneke van der Toorn, who also shared insights into the Netherlands InclusivityMonitor, showcased her commitment to advancing LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. Her presence at the event, supported by the Bi+ Netherlands network, underlines the importance of academic expertise in driving progress in the field of workplace inclusivity. The event served as a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences and marked another step toward achieving greater workplace equality for all.

Workplace Pride extends its sincere appreciation to Prof. Dr. Jojanneke van der Toorn, who serves as their Professor of LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion at Leiden University. Her valuable contributions to the ongoing efforts in promoting LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusivity are greatly acknowledged. As conversations continue and initiatives like these gain traction, there is optimism for a future where bisexual visibility and inclusion in the workplace become standard practices, ensuring that everyone can excel in their professional lives, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Opinion Piece: LBTQ+ rights, higher priority please

By Myrtille Danse, Head of Corporate Engagement at Solidaridad Europe
and member of the Women@Workplace Pride core group

It’s pride month! A time to commemorate the struggle for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer civil rights and a chance to celebrate everything our community has accomplished. While attending last month’s Pride Walk in Amsterdam, I wondered about the LBTQ+ movement in and outside the Netherlands. It seems quite invisible

LBTQ+ have fallen through the cracks

And that’s surprising considering that global discrimination and violence against LBTQ+ have “fallen through the cracks”, according to the report “That’s why we became activists” published by the international NGO Human Rights Watch (HRW) early 2023. This report is based on interviews conducted in 26 countries. It reveals a pattern of grave physical and sexual violence from security forces, family members and private individuals against lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer (LBTQ+) people worldwide. The report identifies ten key areas of rights abuses, such as land and property rights, fertility services, migration and resettlement. The lack of legal protection and the alleged “invisibility” of LBTQ+ women, transgender women and non-binary people in national and international law are barriers to their ability to access justice.

LBTQ+ rights in the workplace

One of these key areas also includes rampant discrimination in the workplace. Violence against queer women, transgender women and non-binary people who presented as masculine was often mentioned by interviewees. Activists said masculine-presenting LBTQ+ people faced a lifetime of economic marginalisation, discrimination and harassment at work and psychological abuse. In Argentina, El Salvador and Kyrgyzstan, masculine-presenting LBTQ+ people are often forced into precarious work with poor labour rights practices (farms, the sex trade, auto shops) or male-dominated fields, where they face physical and sexual abuse.

In the Netherlands we maybe do not experience such extreme cases of discrimination, but research of Corporate Queer (https://corporatequeer.com/) reveals that management teams or a boards of executives without queer representation face challenges to create a company culture for a diverse team. Also the lack of policies in the workplace create challenges, such as working around the lack of a multiparent law. And what does the internal team look like on your website, is the company staff diverse? Does a minority person feel represented when viewing the company? And who can save for a good retirement if they both make two-thirds of what men at their company do?

Call for action on LBTQ+ rights
LBTQ+ discrimination becomes highly visible in these researches. But why don’t we hear more about it in the news, and during pride month? The invisibility of LBTQ+ rights is mainly the result of deprioritisation and systematic ignoring in a range of different streams of reporting. It’s the result of the (un)intentional devaluation of women’s issues, including in queer spaces, and normalises the primacy placed on cisgender men as the “natural” subject of rights, research, and investigation. For this reason, I urge to stop referring to the invisibility of LBTQ+ rights, to avoid that it is being treated as a naturally occurring phenomenon and as such erodes the responsibility of researchers, advocates, and funders to recognise and seek to address the systemic nature of discrimination and violence against LBTQ+ people. And I call for more attention for LBTQ+ rights in pride month, research, and advocacy agendas.