International Lesbian Day (26 April) is an occasion to celebrate the contribution of women from the LGBTI+ community.

To mark the occasion, the Network for LGBT+ Professionals, Students and Employers mygwork.com has announced the results of their international survey on the experiences of LGBTI+ women and non-binary professionals in the workplace. The results show that high levels of workplace discrimination towards LGBTI+ women and non-binary people persist. At least 7 out of 10 people have experienced discrimination in the workplace, and this rate is even higher for marginalized communities and smaller ethnic groups.

Although many companies around the world are working hard to create a safe and inclusive workplace, the survey shows that all occupational sectors are struggling to achieve a discrimination-free environment. Organisations need to work harder to eradicate microaggressions, discrimination, homophobia, transphobia and biphobia in the workplace, and to provide adequate support.

Single Step Foundation stands with all lesbian, bisexual, trans and queer women in their fight to be themselves at work, among family and friends and in the community. That’s why we are turning our attention to different ways to effectively support queer women around us:

• by learning more about their daily difficulties and challenges
• by respecting their identities and using inclusive language
• by creating a safe and supportive environment to share feelings and experiences
• by supporting educational and volunteer causes
• speaking out against discrimination and prejudice at work, at school and in our social circle

We all have the opportunity to help create a safe and supportive community so that women in the LGBTI+ community can feel empowered and confident – sometimes even a single step on our part can make a difference!