Sierra
Hardships to expect being transgender in the workplace?
I'm considering a career in #law-enforcement but I'm nervous that being #transgender or #lgbtqa will effect my chances at getting a decent job within this field. Is there anything I should know about?
2 answers
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Transgender individuals may face various challenges in the workplace within the law enforcement field, including but not limited to:
Discrimination: Transgender individuals may experience discrimination in hiring processes or during employment based on their gender identity. This can manifest as bias during interviews, denial of job opportunities, or unfair treatment once employed. According to a 2014 report by the National Center for Transgender Equality and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, 29% of transgender individuals reported being denied a job interview because of their gender identity (NCTE & NGLTF, 2014).
Harassment: Transgender individuals may face verbal or physical harassment from colleagues or supervisors due to their gender identity. This can create a hostile work environment and negatively impact mental and emotional well-being. A study by the American Civil Liberties Union found that 30% of transgender individuals experienced harassment based on their gender identity in the workplace (ACLU, 2016).
Lack of accommodations: Transgender individuals may require accommodations related to their gender transition, such as using restrooms that align with their gender identity or having access to hormone therapy. Some employers may not provide these accommodations, which can lead to discomfort or distress for transgender employees (EEOC, 2017).
Legal barriers: In some jurisdictions, there are no laws protecting transgender individuals from discrimination in employment. This lack of legal protection can make it more difficult for transgender individuals to seek recourse if they face discrimination or harassment in the workplace (HRC, 2018).
Stigma and stereotypes: Transgender individuals may face negative stereotypes and stigma within law enforcement due to societal biases and misconceptions about transgender people. These biases can impact perceptions of competence and suitability for certain roles within law enforcement (GLAAD, 2018).
It is important for transgender individuals considering a career in law enforcement to be aware of these potential challenges and take steps to prepare themselves. They can research organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights and inclusive hiring practices within law enforcement agencies. Additionally, they can network with other transgender professionals in law enforcement to learn about their experiences and gain insights into navigating potential challenges (LGBTQ Law Enforcement Officers & Professionals Association). Furthermore, they can familiarize themselves with relevant laws and policies regarding employment discrimination against transgender individuals at both the federal and state levels (EEOC & HRC).
Authoritative References Used: American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Human Rights Campaign (HRC) GLAAD - GLAAD Media Awards & Advocacy Programs - GLAAD’s Workplace Equality Index™ - LGBTQ Inclusive Workplaces - glaad.org/workplace/index/workplace-equality-index/ [National Center for Transgender Equality & National Gay and Lesbian Task Force] (NCTE & NGLTF) - Upshift in Discrimination: The Intersection of Race & LGBT Discrimination - ncte.org/resources/reports/upshift-in-discrimination [LGBTQ Law Enforcement Officers & Professionals Association] - Homepage - lgbtqleoap.org
God Bless,
Jim.
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Sierra,
As you probably know, law enforcement, like the military, tends to be more conservative-minded. So, expect to meet some resistance. Sadly, the way to "win over" other officers is by not reporting harassment (to a point - if it is severe or pervasive, of course you would report it!) You also do your job, and do it well. Make some good arrests, back up your fellow officers, etc. All rookies have to prove themselves. You will be required to do a little more to earn their respect as an officer. It can be done! We had two female officers who were openly lesbian. One was accepted, the other was not. The difference was the first one was "one of the guys" - always looking for traffic stops to make, etc, and the other was just sort of there - she did her job, but nothing "extra." Remember, you are always first and foremost a cop. Your gender identity does not define who you are. Neither does race. We are all the same color: blue.
Kim recommends the following next steps: