Around 73% of LGBTQ+ individuals believe they have witnessed discrimination because of ‘unrealistic and negative’ media portrayals of the LGBTQ+ community, confirmed a recent study carried out by INvolve.
The survey echoes the findings of another TUC study, which showed that nearly two in five LGBTQ+ workers have been harassed or discriminated against by a colleague; and quarter have been discriminated against by their manager, as reported. Negative media representation of the LGBTQ+ community is making matters worse and having a ripple effects on ‘real-world’ situations. In fact, according to INvolve, nearly seven in 10 believe that the media affects the way they are perceived in the workplace; six in 10 within their family; and five in 10 within their social circles.
Over half of LGBTQ+ respondents (53%) believe that these perceptions are negative; and only 16% consider them as positive, according to the global diversity and inclusion consultancy. News is the media platform that showcases the most negative (50%) and unrealistic (68%) portrayals of the LGBTQ+ community. This is followed closely by reality TV (47% and 60%) and TV dramas (25% and 52%).
POWERFUL LGBTQ+ ROLE MODELS
One respondent highlighted that the media portrayals of the LGBTQ+ community ‘clearly perpetuates negative stereotypes as well as ignorance’. Another added: “Within the workplace I have less influence on the perceptions of people around me than the media does. Therefore, if media perception of the LGBTQ+ community is negative, it makes my task of being out in the workplace more difficult as I need to tackle the task of changing that perception.”
The need for more diverse, realistic, and positive representations of the LGBTQ+ community within the media is clear, noted the report. But this can only happen if there are powerful role models leading the way in news media; behind our screens and in our workplaces.
LGBTQ+ ROLE MODELS IN BUSINESS VITAL
The findings were released alongside INvolve’s annual OUTstanding LGBT+ role model lists, at the end of last year. These lists recognise positive role models within the workplace; and further underlines the need for positive LGBT+ role models to drive diversity and inclusion, as reported. The listing also celebrates businesspeople who play a key role in breaking the glass ceiling for LGBTQ+ individuals at work.
“Positive role models in business are vital. They blaze a trail for change and inspire others to take action for inclusion,” stated Suki Sandhu OBE, Founder and CEO of INvolve. “You can’t be what you can’t see so there is a great need for strong and meaningful role models to be visible in business; across the media and in society. With LGBT+ rights being scrutinised globally, the recent rise of transphobia and hostility towards the LGBT+ community, it’s more important than ever to celebrate and learn from those who are driving long-term, positive change for the LGBT+ community.”
TOP 100 LGBT+ ROLE MODELS
2021’s top 100 LGBT+ Role Models list featured founders of LGBTQ+ recruitment and networking platform myGwork, Adrien and Pierre Gaubert. They recently secured an additional £1.6 million for further global expansion, as reported.
Check out 2021’s Global OUTstanding Role Models here.
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