Surveys of the ‘LGBTQ+ community’ produce findings that misrepresent the experiences and the views of same-sex attracted people.

This groundbreaking Report on the impact of EDI in the workplace exclusively surveyed LGB people. It shows why a disaggregation of the data is vital to report accurately and meaningfully for lesbians, gay men and bisexuals.

Respondents spoke of a ‘compelled conformity’ at work.

They said, “I was told what the LGBTQ+ community was and what I think, even though I disagreed with nearly all of it. Nobody asked my opinion, even as a gay man. I was just told what I thought.”

It’s clear the consequences of disagreement are frightening.

“I am expected to accept the male lesbian to keep my job, It makes me very unwell…”

Key findings of the Report include:

• 91% feel uncomfortable being grouped under the broader LGBTQ+ umbrella commonly used in workplace EDI policy and initiatives
• Over a third (36%) have been advised by HR to stay silent about views that conflict with staff LGBTQ+ groups and DEI initiatives — while 86% avoid expressing their views altogether, fearing consequences such as job loss or disciplinary action
• 79% of LGB employees say workplace “LGBT” training does not address LGB-specific issues

This Report, and its recommendations to business leaders, is an important step towards improved workplace conditions for lesbians, gay men and bisexuals.