Talent on the Move: Why Pride at Work Sparks Business Growth
This LGBTQ+ History Month, learn more about why queer and trans talent is on the move, and how business communities can respond to today's shifting legal landscape.
Nearly a decade ago, the State of North Carolina enacted HB2, the first statewide anti-trans bathroom bill introduced in the United States. It required transgender people to use public restrooms inconsistent with their gender identity, which sparked widespread political backlash and severe economic consequences. Estimates suggest the legislation costs the state almost $5 billion annually.
Since that time, nearly every state across the country has attempted to pass similar, or even more restrictive laws. In just the past two years, we’ve seen over 1,000 anti-LGBTQ+ bills, many of which target the lives and well-being of transgender children. As a result, a growing number of families are uprooting their lives and relocating to more supportive and affirming states.
Adverse Workforce Impacts
While public policy over the past two decades has led to significant legislative wins for LGBTQ+ people including the freedom to marry, the ability to openly serve in the military, and protections against hate crimes, these basic freedoms and protections are under siege, and this assault is having adverse impacts on our workplaces.
Many businesses have met these legislative efforts with formal rebukes from chambers of commerce, business advocacy organizations, and at shareholder meetings. Yet, many business leaders struggle with how to effectively communicate to the public why pride at work is essential for their businesses to grow into the future. If you’re among this group of leaders, you’re in the right place.
Our featured guest, Erin Uritus is here to help. Erin is the CEO of Out & Equal, which is the premier nonprofit working to advance LGBTQ+ representation, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. She is a passionate advocate for creating diverse and thriving workplaces where everyone can reach their full potential. Erin will help us understand why queer and trans talent is on the move.
During our conversation on the Imagine Belonging Podcast you will:
Discover the alarming impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, which is causing a talent exodus and hindering business growth.
Gain insights from a recent Out & Equal report, Talent on the Move, revealing the needs and expectations of LGBTQ+ employees in today's climate.
Explore actions business leaders can take to gain a competitive advantage by doing the right thing and investing in targeted LGBTQ+ DEIB interventions.
Our conversation is designed to support people like you – visionary leaders, and those on their way to joining us. Savor this insightful talk, and if you’re looking for more ways to connect with inspiring leaders like Erin, be sure to join the Belonging Membership Community, a community of practice committed to putting our values of belonging, community, and collaboration into action. Members have the unique opportunity to connect with guests like Erin for 1:1 laser coaching sessions.
Out & Equal Workplace Summit
Oh, and if you’re planning to attend the 2024 Out & Equal Workplace Summit, please be sure to swing by the Imagine Belonging Podcast Studio, right in the heart of the engagement center. I’ll be interviewing some of today’s smartest LGBTQ+ business leaders on topics related to the “Business of Belonging.” You’ll be the first to get a sneak peak of a special podcast mini-series we’ll be launching later this fall.
Thanks for growing the #BelongingMovement!