Anyone Can Be An Ally

The "godfather" of gay sensitivity training, Brian McNaught, is featured in the new release Anyone Can Be An Ally; Speaking Up for an LGBT Inclusive Workplace

Many organizations are in a war for talent. To attract and retain the best and brightest talents, and to secure their fair share of the marketplace (where applicable), organizations need to create a workplace in which everyone feels welcome. When gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people don't feel safe and valued at work, productivity goes down, and organizations fail in their efforts to attract and retain the best and brightest talent. 

Dubbed by the NY Times as "the godfather of gay sensitivity training," Brian McNaught demonstrates how anyone can be an ally to create a respectful workplace that is inclusive of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender co-workers. Many organizations have polices in place to protect lesbian, gay, bisexual an transgender members of the workplace. But does their culture match their policies? "Policies do not change the culture, people and behaviors change the culture." It is important to note that McNaught advocates that he is not trying to change beliefs, but change inappropriate behaviors . "This is not about anyone changing his or her personal values, but rather changing inappropriate behaviors at work. We are all free to think whatever we want to about other people, but we can't impose those beliefs on our colleagues at work."

Can you teach your employees the skills they need to create an inclusive workplace? Yes, if you teach them that when you hear an inappropriate comment, say something, and say it with a confident voice. You may never fully know how much of a positive impact you've had on the lives of other people and on the workplace culture.

"In this short 14-minute video, Brian McNaught offers what we need to know, say and do as allies- in a way that is compelling, informative and actionable. If you are looking for guidance about language choices, when to speak up, and how to foster inclusion as an authentic LGBT ally, this video5.0 (Windows; U; Windows NT 6.1;actice) is all you need to have the confidence and capability to make a difference," Deb Dagit, Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion, Merck  &Co.

Speaking up for respect is always the right thing to do. Allies have the power to change the culture and anyone can be an ally.