November Update
Cynthia Fortlage
Award-Winning Leader in Inclusive Leadership Transformation & Gender Diversity Inclusion | Consultant | Keynote Speaker | Mentor | Thought Leader | Seeking Literary Agent
Welcome to “Gender Perspectives,” a monthly exploration of the multifaceted world of gender and its profound impact on society and the workplace. As an intersectional gender diversity advocate and a dedicated champion of human rights, I am thrilled to present you with a curated space where we delve into the diverse ways gender is constructed and experienced. This newsletter bridges the vital conversations on gender identity, expression, and inclusion, bringing to light the latest news, insights, and thought-provoking discussions that have transpired within the global business landscape. Whether it’s sharing my reflections, highlighting inspiring stories, or shedding light on pressing issues, “Gender Perspectives” is your source for staying informed and inspired. Join me on this enlightening journey as we work together to create inclusive and welcoming workplaces where every individual’s identity is honoured with the dignity and respect they deserve. Let’s explore, learn, and evolve our understanding of gender together.
Balancing Inclusivity: The Dangers of Erasing Identities in the Pursuit of Conciseness
In a world where brevity is prized, the art of concise communication poses challenges, especially in discussing sensitive topics. This month’s article dives into the unintended consequences of omitting the word ‘women’ in inclusive language efforts. While aiming for inclusivity, the absence of ‘women’ may unintentionally erase diverse identities, risking marginalization and reinforcing stereotypes. Striking a balance between inclusivity and specificity is crucial. Embracing intersectionality and conscientious language practices is critical to fostering an equitable discourse honouring all gender identities.
Examining the Driving Force Behind Return to Office Policies
The surge in flexible work arrangements is reshaping commercial real estate and global economies, partly driven by financial ties to long-term leases. Influenced by these commitments, employers pushing for a return to the office seek to justify underutilized space. Studies from Forbes, GOBankingRates, and The New York Times reveal how leases shape this push, affecting workplace dynamics.
The shift, driven by remote work adoption, may reduce office space demand by 13% by 2030, impacting rents and occupancy rates. Yet, it presents opportunities to repurpose spaces for coworking or residential use. This transition also holds potential savings for companies and employees, boosts productivity, and fosters a more geographically diverse workforce.
Crucially, flexible policies benefit women and LGBTQ+ individuals, easing career challenges and fostering inclusivity. Studies show these policies enhance women’s employment rates, wages, and managerial opportunities while creating a more welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ employees.
In navigating this changing landscape, embracing flexibility can reshape work-life balance and drive inclusive growth, benefiting individuals and economies alike.
Urgent Reforms Needed: Safeguarding Maternity Care in 2023
The realm of maternity care, sacred in healthcare, faces distressing revelations highlighted by England’s Care Quality Commission. Their report exposes a system struggling with safety, with two-thirds of maternity units rated inadequate—an alarming increase. Heartbreaking stories like Eve’s, a victim of inadequate care, emphasize the human toll of this crisis.
This distress isn’t new, despite initiatives launched since 2016. Failures stem from systemic deficiencies—resource shortages, funding gaps, and insufficient training. Urgent action, including increased funding, robust training, and family inclusion in decisions, is imperative.
While glimmers of progress exist, advocating for nationwide reform is crucial. It’s a collective responsibility to demand immediate and substantive changes. As advocates for human rights, let’s unite to ensure every mother and child receives the care they deserve. Contact organizations like Pregnant Then Screwed and the Royal College of Midwives to support this vital cause.
Celebrating Inclusive Language While Honouring Women in the Pregnancy Narrative
The journey through pregnancy, historically associated with women, now prompts an inclusive shift in language without erasing ‘woman.’ Pregnant Then Screwed’s advocacy spotlights workplace discrimination faced by pregnant individuals, emphasizing the need to acknowledge diverse gender identities while honouring women’s unique challenges.
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Studies highlight the prevalence of pregnancy discrimination, with one in four women experiencing mistreatment at work. However, it’s crucial to recognize that not all pregnant individuals identify as women. Transgender men and non-binary individuals can also experience pregnancy; as highlighted by the Williams Institute’s research, an estimated 500,000 transgender individuals in the US have given birth.
Inclusive language doesn’t diminish women’s experiences but enriches our understanding of pregnancy, ensuring a supportive environment for all pregnant individuals. The objective is to embrace diversity, respect all identities, and foster inclusivity during this significant life event.
The Double Bind: Unpacking the Gendered Implications of Work for Women
Women face distinct challenges in the workplace, known as the ‘double bind,’ encompassing gender stereotypes, leadership perceptions, work-life balance struggles, career advancement barriers, and expectations regarding emotional labour. Intersectionality further complicates these challenges for women with diverse identities.
Understanding these implications can be complex for some men due to unconscious bias, limited exposure to women’s experiences, societal norms, lack of empathy, resistance to change, organizational culture, and inadequate education on gender-related issues. Addressing these challenges necessitates multifaceted approaches involving education, awareness campaigns, and fostering dialogues to include men as allies in promoting gender equity.
Other Notable News
?Kemi Badenoch is reviewing the methodology of census data on gender identity to look at the “overestimated” trans census. The purpose is still unknown. Stay tuned.
?Rishi Sunak, Included or Excluded from the King’s Speech on banning conversion therapy.
?Wales Government to include Trans Women in gender quota bills. Not redefining, which is a political dog whistle, as some news sources have said.
?ONS Data LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes up 11% in 1 year
After more than 25 years of dedicated leadership in the corporate, feminist, and LGBTQ+ realms, with a profound commitment to LGBTQ+ and women’s rights, I stand ready to support, consult, educate, and advise on your next diversity challenge. Your journey towards inclusivity begins with a conversation. Reach out to me at [email protected] with any inquiries.