The LGBTQ+ Community

The LGBTQ+ community is very diverse, and your knowledge and recognition of that diversity is extremely important. In this course, you will learn how to differentiate among the many different types of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as define each part of the LGBTQ+ acronym.

While some people are already familiar with lesbian, gay, and bisexual people, they may be less familiar with the other terms that comprise the rest of the acronym. In this course, we’ll explore what it means to be transgender and queer, and we’ll address the additional gender identities and sexual orientations covered under the “plus.” We’ll also cover other terms such as asexual and heterosexual, and explore the concept of heteronormativity, which is the belief that presumes straight people are “normal” and LGBTQ+ people are not. You’ll also learn about homophobia—feelings of fear and hate directed at people who are attracted to individuals of the same sex.

We’ll cover some best practices for welcoming LGBTQ+ coworkers, including asking inclusive questions and signaling it’s OK for them to be their true selves. We’ll also discuss what it means to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, how to confront bias and discrimination, and when to ask community members if they need your support. When you choose to be an ally, you become a role model for other employees to become allies; and over time, the workplace becomes more diverse and inclusive.