Out & Equal Workplace Advocates' Building Bridges: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Diversity in the Workplace training program breaks down barriers and fosters communication between LGBT and employees and their co-workers.

The Program achieves three goals:

1. Awareness: Through a series of interactive exercises and educational materials, participants examine the ways common myths and stereotypes influence their views of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, learn definitions and information about LGBT terminology and reflect on personal stories about affirmative and negative experiences as a result of being a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender person. All components are conducted within the context of workplace issues.


2. Assessment:Trainers lead participants through an assessment of the current environment for LGBT employees (or employees who have LGBT family members or friends), to explore how this environment affects productivity and employee retention, as well as how it can influence workplace goals.


3. Action Plan: Together we'll develop an action plan to effect changes (or affirm existing positive steps) that ensure a more comfortable, productive and profitable environment for all workplace attendees.

Upon completion of the training, program participants will be able to:

• State the significance of LGBT issues in the context of broader diversity issues
  
• Evaluate myths and stereotypes about LGBT people
  
• Discuss the effects of homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, and heterosexism on workplace relationships
  
• Assess the workplace environment from the perspective of LGBT employees, clients, and customers
  
• Generate a personal or organizational action plan to address targeted problem areas

Building Bridges: LGBT Diversity in the Workplace training is a four-hour workshop conducted by two certified Out & Equal trainers. Depending on the needs of the organization, the target group can include senior executives, managers, human resources, diversity professionals, customer service representatives, and the general employee population.

Contact Us
For additional information or if you would like to schedule a Building Bridges training program, contact us at info@outandequal.org or (415) 694-6500.