Building Awareness and Acceptance as an LGBTQ+ Ally

Jen Coughlan, Senior HR Manager at Baxter Healthcare Ltd, spoke to myGwork about the effect of positive visibility in the workplace, and why Pride related business resource groups are important. Based in Dublin and supporting parts of the organization across Ireland and EMEA, she also discussed her journey being an LGBTQ+ ally, and her personal reasons for being a life-long supporter of the community.

How, when and why did you decide to be an LGBTQ+ ally?

It always felt natural to me, from a young age I was shocked to read and hear stories of injustice and human rights inequality touching many groups, including the LGBTQ+ community.

More recently, it touched me more personally as my brother transitioned. From one side, I was relieved and happy about the fact that he could finally be himself and that he’d benefit from some fantastic support through his transition (he lives in Belgium). But on the other hand, it made me conscious that there is still so much work to be done when it comes to building awareness, acceptance, and support to the trans community.

How does your organization facilitate the inclusion of allies with your LGBTQ+ network?

We have Pride BRGs in place in many countries and regions and an extremely supportive Global Leadership Team that enables and promotes allyship in the Company and the Community. Visibility is important too as we want to make people feel welcome and included – we have pride flags at the office reception as well as Inclusion Charters signed by the local leadership team.

Have you been involved in any activities with your organization’s LGBTQ+ network, which ones?

When my brother transitioned a few years ago, it gave me a greater awareness about the issues surrounding gender transition. I realized that we could do better in supporting our LGBTQ+ employees.  We introduced new guidelines, to help foster dialogue and understanding of trans issues in the workplace. These guidelines underpin Baxter’s position as an employer committed to ensuring a workplace that celebrates and supports inclusion and diversity. They include recommendations for employees, managers and Human Resources on how to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for employees transitioning while working at Baxter.