Self Advocacy

Responsibility for blunting racist, sexist, homophobic, ableist thoughts and actions is shared between individuals, organizations, and society. In every work and learning environment that you enter, you have the opportunity to create a more inclusive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. The aim of these modules is to gain knowledge, awareness and skills that will enable learners to take effective actions that combat discrimination and create more inclusive and safe environments, so the experience of learning is a rich one with opportunities for you bring your full creative self too and be meaningfully engaged.

It is acknowledged that the power dynamics between the student who may be experiencing or witnessing discrimination and the perpetrators who may be in a position of authority or status (this can also be another peer) can make challenging or speaking up difficult and sometimes scary. There are different factors that weigh into a person’s decision to act and are not always clear-cut reasons nor are they the same for everyone. Whatever the reason, the decision you make should be one that you are comfortable with.

Being informed about the options available to you can help you to determine how you wish to respond and the steps that can be taken, the supports available and the possible outcomes. In some circumstances, the decision to address concerns and incidents does not rest with only you. Once a disclosure is made, processes to respond to situations of discrimination or harassment are triggered such as an investigation or duty to report and respond, as impacts can go beyond individuals directly involved impacting the large group or organization.

Deciding how to respond does not have to be a decision you make on your own and without support. You are encouraged to reach out to program faculty and staff within your institution. There may also be a variety of campus services from which you can also seek advice, will assist you with getting connected to the proper supports and bringing a complaint forward. Remember you do not have to handle things on your own.

Below are some strategies that you may wish to consider.

All of these approaches, aim to exhibit good ally behaviour. This looks like assessing the people, power, and place where discrimination happens before taking action. This also looks like taking an intersectional approach to dismantling transphobia, homophobia and ignorance against gender-diverse and sexual minorities. People hold many identities targeted for discrimination that include racial, gender, sexual, cultural, ability, age, etc.

Navigating the professional world as a person who identifies with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community can be challenging, particularly in industries with less representation. But you do not have to do it alone.

In addition to the strategies mentioned in the video, consider these tips for creating a more inclusive space for yourself in the workplace.