Why Male Allyship Matters in the Workplace?

Today is World Menopause Day – an opportunity to raise awareness of menopause and the support options available for improving health and wellbeing. It also provides an opportunity to recognise the wider struggles women face in the workplace and ask the question – are we doing enough?

In the ongoing pursuit of gender equity, the role of male allies in the workplace is an important catalyst to drive professional, positive change. Allyship involves recognising and addressing gender disparities in various domains such as the workplace, education, and social settings.

While there’s no denying that great strides have been made, the gender pay gap remains stubbornly high and women continue to face sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace.?

Men need to play their part in reducing gender inequities and fostering inclusive working environments by leveraging their positions and voices. While the path to becoming an effective ally may present challenges, the benefits it brings across the workplace are immeasurable.

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The Role of Male Allies in Promoting Gender Equity

In male-dominated environments, the presence of male allies can drastically reduce the negative experiences that women often face.

Studies show that male allies help decrease women's anticipated isolation and workplace hostility while increasing their sense of support and respect. Feeling comfortable in a supportive environment enhances women's wellbeing and promotes adherence to gender-equality norms.

Effective male allies understand that their role is not just about advocacy but also about taking concrete actions to support women. This means making structural changes that address a range of issues that women face, including workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, the gender pay gap, menopause, and leadership opportunities.

Together, we can be more proactive in disrupting workplace cultures and organisational processes that do not support gender equality.

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Improved Health and Wellbeing

Promoting gender equality through male allyship also has positive effects on health and wellbeing, according to research published in European Psychiatry .

Greater gender equality is associated with better health outcomes for both men and women, suggesting that efforts to promote gender equality can lead to a healthier, more balanced workforce.

This holistic benefit highlights the far-reaching impact of gender equity initiatives, reinforcing the importance of male allyship in creating healthier and more productive environments.

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Benefits of Male Allyship in the Workplace

1. Amplifying Women's Voices: Male allies can use their privilege to amplify women's voices and experiences, creating spaces for their stories to be heard. By actively listening, supporting, and sharing women's perspectives, male allies help foster a more inclusive and diverse society.
2. Challenging the Status Quo: Male allies play a vital role in challenging societal norms and advocating for gender equity. They can use their positions of influence to promote fair policies, equal opportunities, and inclusive practices, creating an environment that benefits women and men alike.
3. Fostering Safe and Inclusive Spaces: Male allies contribute to the creation of safer and more inclusive environments where women can thrive. By challenging toxic masculinity and addressing harmful behaviours, they actively work towards eradicating gender-based violence and harassment.
4. Promoting Workforce Diversity: Male allies recognise the importance of diversity in the workplace and actively support efforts to increase gender representation. By championing inclusive hiring practices, advocating for equal pay, and supporting women's career advancement, they contribute to building more equitable and successful organisations.
5. Positive Role Modelling: Male allies set an example for other men and boys by demonstrating respectful and equitable behaviour. They can inspire and educate others on the benefits of allyship, helping to reshape societal norms and attitudes towards gender.

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Breaking the Stigma around Menopause

Breaking down the stigma around?menopause?in the workplace is vital. Workplaces can make a huge difference to people who experience menopause by providing good-quality information and support, as well as educating leaders on how to approach these conversations.

Members of the trans and non-binary community can sometimes experience menopause symptoms if they are taking hormonal treatments. It is crucial for leaders to be trans and non-binary inclusive in the support they offer.

Organisations should treat the menopause as they would any other health issue, not only to break the stigma and taboo surrounding the menopause at work, but to create an inclusive environment where people of all genders feel able to discuss any reasonable adjustments that may be needed.

Practical policies to support employees experiencing the menopause, although important, will have limited impact without also fostering an inclusive culture where colleagues feel comfortable discussing their experiences.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re a leader, normalise conversation around menopause and women’s health issues, so your colleagues feel comfortable discussing them with you.? It’s up to all leaders – male and female - to break the stigma around menopause and ensure the workplace is a place where everyone is able to thrive. Be approachable, be open to conversations and let’s all take action together. ?

Encourage men to become active allies for gender equality, advocating for institutional changes that support genuine allyship, and continuing to raise awareness of the importance of male allyship in achieving true gender equity.

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