Coming Out at the Office: Is Your Workplace Gay-Friendly?
Unlike your friends and family, your co-workers are not obliged to love you no matter what. It is unfortunate but true. Many people choose never to come out to their co-workers, feeling more comfortable to simply never talk about their personal lives. However, at the same time, often gays and lesbians will begin to feel jealous of their coworkers ability to bond over their shared experiences, or bring their partners to company events. Only you know what is right for you.
- Assess the situation. Is your office a gay-friendly place? If someone were to make a gay joke, how would people react? Are racial slurs or other offensive types of language tolerated? Does your office have any official policies regarding harassment? Is there a harassment training for employees? All these things can help you determine what the environment in your office is really like, and how they might respond to a gay employee.
- Know the laws. Although there are some states have passed laws protecting the rights of homosexuals in the workplace, It is a sad fact that there is no federal law that protects gays and lesbians from being fired due to their sexual preference. It is a good idea to do a little research and see what the laws are in your state. Do you think that there is a chance that you could lose your job over being gay? You may have to make the tough decision between being comfortable and being employable.
- Think twice. As always, once you come out there’s no going back. Think long and hard about this decision. This isn’t a report that is due at the end of the week; there is no deadline for coming out of the closet. Take the time to make sure this is the best decision for you.
- Be discreet. This is not the time to put on a show, or to make a point. Offices are notorious for gossip. Do not put yourself in the position where you are the subject of the latest office scandal. There is no need for public announcement or mass e-mails. If your co-workers are having a conversation about weekend plans, mention an activity that you and your partner will be partaking in. Be calm and casual, and your co-workers will follow suit.
