Minus18 Foundation’s Post

"No one is too old to learn a new pronoun." Jacki Agusta, LCSW, LCAS, CSI (they/them) with SouthLight Healthcare said this when they led a mandatory training In honor of Pride month and as part of SouthLight’s DEI initiative. SouthLight is investing training and resources to increase inclusion and make it a more affirming place.  Here are a few key take-a-ways and reminders: --When learning about the LGBTQIA+ community, be willing, be open, be humble and be curious. --Don’t assume someone’s identity. Let them tell you in their own terms. --Get comfortable asking questions, such as “How do you identify your sexual orientation? What gender do you identify with? What name do you go by? How would you like me to refer to you? What pronouns do you use?”  --If you slip up, correct yourself and move on. When someone corrects you, say thank you and keep the conversation moving on.  --Practice out loud with a friend or co-worker. When we practice, it becomes second nature. I am open. I am learning. Please join me. The LGBT Center of Raleigh is an excellent resource.

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I heard an offhand comment from a YouTuber and it struck me as absolutely profound. Making marginalised people invisible, "not normal", and out of the conversation takes sustained and consistent effort. The natural state of a society is diversity. Without threats and pressure, LGBTQ people would have been an unremarkable part of everyone's social interactions. Ethnic minorities would naturally be part of media and broadcast. People with disabilities wouldn't have to deal with inaccessibility and bias. Just don't be a dipstick is much either than spending effort ro be one. If you want a simple example, think about how much effort schools put into keeping kids in some semblance of a uniform. Tuck your shirt in. Pull up your socks. Put your collar down. Tie your hair back. Human beings will naturally present their authentic diversity unless there is something stopping them.

February is LGBTQIA+ History Month, which is an annual month-long observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender history, along with related civil rights movements. But, why is the internet important for young people in the LGBTQIA+ community and what can carers do to help them stay safe? 🏳️🌈 A space to explore identity: the internet is a place where everyone can explore content that they identify with or find inspiring 🏳️🌈 A space to feel part of something: people can access LGBTQIA+ forums or groups and conversations 🏳️🌈 A space for help, guidance and education: guidance and help with wellbeing, practical support, and trans-specific care, are more readily available because of the internet 🏳️🌈 A space for change: campaigning can be an empowering and meaningful part of LGBTQIA+ young people’s online lives, which also helps them feel included and listened to Carers are a big part of this journey. They can help by being supportive, positive, discuss expectations and by being open and honest 🙌

Thank you 🙏 Magda 🌈 Stega 🏳️⚧️ for giving us such a heartfelt and simple perspective of what it means to be trans* 🏳️⚧️ at the workplace! Here is a summary of what we talked about Link to the AMA (Ask Me Anything) on Instagram Live: https://lnkd.in/d6wHq79f 1) QUEER ROLE MODELS: of course coming out is hard. But if not your family, or allies on social media, look out for queer role models that you can relate to! 2) ASK QUESTIONS, WITH EMPATHY: always reflect, would I ask a cis-person the same question? And it is really that simple to be sensitive! 3) COMPANIES - FOLLOW A HOLISTIC APPROACH! Sensitise HR and managers about basic LGBTQIA+ terminology; encourage everyone to use pronouns; host townhalls with queer role models; ensure anti-discrimination policies and gender-neutral washrooms; look for health insurance policies that cover Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS) - all just as starting points! And don’t forget to just HUG, ACKNOWLEDGE and BE THERE for your trans*, non-binary and gender non-conforming friends, colleagues and family members! ❤️  - #trans #workplace #inclusion #dei #diversity #equity #inclusion #europe #discrimination

🌈 Elevate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with History UnErased! 🚀 Empower your organization's journey towards true diversity, equity, and inclusion with a transformative partnership with History UnErased 🌍✨ History UnErased is a trailblazing organization committed to providing cutting-edge LGBTQ+ history education. With our tailored DEI program, your organization can access comprehensive resources, curriculum, and training to foster an inclusive and equitable environment. Why Choose History UnErased for Your DEI Initiatives? 🌟 Comprehensive Curriculum: Our robust curriculum offers deep insights into LGBTQ+ history, promoting empathy, understanding, and unity. 🎓 Educator Training: Equip your educators with the tools and knowledge to facilitate sensitive conversations around LGBTQ+ topics. 📚 Engaging Resources: Access a wealth of materials that make history come alive, empowering individuals with historical context. 🌎 Global Perspective: Understand the LGBTQ+ experience from various cultures and historical contexts, enriching the narrative. 🔗 Tailored Solutions: Our team works closely with yours to develop customized programs that align with your organization's goals. What Our DEI Offer Includes: 🔔 Engaging Workshops: Interactive sessions that promote open dialogue, challenge biases, and foster understanding. 📊 Data-Driven Insights: Utilize data and insights to identify areas for growth and create effective DEI strategies. 🗂️ Resource Library: Access a treasure trove of educational materials, lesson plans, and resources for sustained learning. Ready to take the next step in advancing DEI within your organization? Reach out to our team today to learn more about how History UnErased can support your mission. Book your DEI Session: https://lnkd.in/gTA_hEQz #dei #inclusionmatters #lgbthistory #educationforall

November is Trans Awareness Month! Let's celebrate the incredible diversity within our community. Remember the words of Marsha P. Johnson: "We have to be visible. We should not be ashamed of who we are." Embrace your authenticity!  Share this with a supportive friend!  #TransRightsAreHumanRights #EqualityForAll #SupportTransRights #DanceForAllAbilities #RepresentationMatters #DisabilityJustice #BlackDisability #DisabilityCommunity #DisabilityInclusion #BlackAndDisabled #DisabilityPride #Ableism   . . . [Image Description: Purple background with the graphic of a hand holding the Transgender Flag in baby blue, pink, and white. Below white text reads “November is Trans Awareness Month!” Below is a white quotation mark symbol. White text reads “We have to be visible. We should not be ashamed of who we are. — Marsha P. Johnson”.]

On campus, LGBTQ+ students face unique challenges affecting mental well-being. 🧠 About 1 in 4 LGBTQ+ college students have considered dropping out of college due to mental health issues according to a survey from BestColleges. Discover the crucial importance of creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ students in higher education, where acceptance is the key to success and growth: https://hubs.li/Q02cw1Q10