The realities of intersectionality are especially true for members of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
In this article, we’ll explain the hurdles you’ll overcome and how to turn overlapping challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
Facing discrimination in the job market
It's no secret that LGBTQ2S+ folks have dealt with discrimination in the job market based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Unfortunately, this is still a reality today.
If you’re an LGBTQ2S+ person of colour or living with a disability, the challenges can be even greater.
The term intersectionality means that various aspects of a person’s identity can overlap, creating unique experiences of discrimination or privilege. For example, a transgender person of colour might face challenges because of both their gender identity and their race.
Unconscious bias can be part of the problem. This refers to people’s unconscious attitudes or stereotypes based on gender, sexuality, race or age, to name a few, that affect their behaviour and decisions. When you’re applying for a job, an employer’s unconscious bias can lead them to discriminate against you, even if they don’t realize they’re doing it.
For instance, if a hiring manager has an unconscious bias towards traditional gender norms, they might unknowingly favour people who fit those norms, leaving out those who don't. This isn’t about noticing an LGBTQ2S+ person’s lack of skills, it’s about the hidden biases that affect decisions without anyone even realizing it.
Giving employers a closer look
Before you apply for a job, research the employers that you are interested in to see whether they’re likely to respect and value your identity. Look for companies with strong diversity and inclusion policies and read reviews from current and former employees.
There are websites that can give you insights into a company's culture and how they tend to treat their employees. If a company doesn't respect your identity, they may not respect your time or skills.
Recognizing the role of Two-Spirit people
Jarret Leaman, co-founder of the Centre for Indigenous Innovation and Technology has spoken publicly about the value of incorporating Two-Spirit (2S) talent into modern workplaces.
2S is a term used by some Indigenous people to describe those who are gender expansive and sexually diverse. By using this term, 2S people identify within their cultural context rather than with Western notions and labels. In the past, 2S individuals were viewed as having a third or fourth gender and played special roles that went beyond the male-female binary.
Drawing from an elder’s teachings, Leaman has spoken about how 2S people historically served as mediators, promoting harmony. The 2S role can be valuable in today’s workplaces. This is especially true in industries like tech, where Indigenous representation is low. By embracing the mediating skills of 2S people, workplaces can become more inclusive and harmonious.
Highlighting diversity as an asset
Turn your intersectional identity into a superpower by focusing on your unique viewpoints and experiences:
- Highlight your strengths—Focus on your achievements and skills. Tell employers how your background as an LGBTQ2S+ individual, person of colour, or person with a disability can bring fresh ideas, problem-solving, and solutions to the organization. These are sought-after qualities in any workplace.
- Talk about your lived experience—Your experiences mean you can bring deep wisdom to your job about inclusive practices and how they can benefit your team, customer relations, and overall workplace culture.
- Emphasize your commitment to diversity and inclusion—Show how your perspective is not only an asset, but also aligns with the growing emphasis on creating equitable and welcoming workplaces.
You’re not just a job applicant. You’re a valuable asset! More and more, employers recognize the value of diverse perspectives. By framing your intersecting identities as strengths, you can position yourself as a valuable contributor who brings unique insights and skills to any role.
Specific challenges for LGBTQ2S+ youth
LGBTQ2S+ youth often face specific barriers in their job search. Many have been kicked out of their homes or don’t have support from their families, which can make it hard to access education and career resources. On top of that, issues like low self-esteem, mental health struggles, and internalized homophobia can make the job search even harder.
For these young people, getting support is key. Organizations like the Fyrefly Institute offer resources that can help LGBTQ2S+ youth with everything from career planning to mental health support. These services can make a big difference in overcoming the barriers that stand in the way of success.
Other barriers for LGBTQ2S+ people
Beyond the struggles that youth face, LGBTQ2S+ people can sometimes deal with substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and stress from the idea of coming out. These challenges can add a lot of extra pressure, especially when you're already dealing with the stress of a job search. The fear of discrimination at work makes it even harder.
For non-binary and gender non-conforming folks, things can get even trickier. Many employers still have fixed ideas about gender roles and how people should look or behave. That's why it's crucial to find workplaces that truly value diversity and are open to including all gender identities and expressions.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Connecting with LGBTQ2S+ organizations and communities can offer you the support and resources you need to overcome these challenges and succeed in your career.
Legal protections against discrimination
In Canada, you’re protected from discrimination based on things like sexual orientation, gender identity, race, and disability. These protections apply to jobs, housing, and public services.
The Alberta Human Rights Act also covers these protections. This means that if you're LGBTQ2S+ and belong to another marginalized group—such as being a person of colour or having a disability—you're legally protected against discrimination when looking for a job or in the workplace.
In reality, however, LGBTQ2S+ individuals have more trouble finding jobs, are paid less on average, and face more discrimination on the job than heterosexual people.
With these laws in place, why do some people still face difficulties? Some employers are not aware of the laws and, sometimes, laws are not enforced. It's important for both employers and individuals to understand these rights and work towards creating fair and inclusive workplaces for everyone.
How to take action against discrimination
If you think you’ve been passed over for a job because of your sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or disability status, it's important to take action.
First, gather any evidence you have—emails, job postings, or anything else that shows discrimination might have happened.
Second, file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission. You will need to give them detailed information about the discrimination, including dates, names, and descriptions of the incidents. They’ll look at the complaint and figure out the next steps.
Various other organizations in Alberta offer support and resources for LGBTQ2S+ individuals and others who face discrimination:
- The Pride Centre of Edmonton offers community services, support networks and references, and further reading on LGBTQ2S+ issues.
- Outlink, a community-based not-for-profit organization in Calgary, provides support, education, outreach and referrals to the LGBTQ2S+ community.
- Central Alberta Pride Society brings awareness and community to LGBTQ2S+ individuals in areas surrounding Red Deer.
- Grande Prairie Pride Society works year-round to plan Grande Prairie’s Pride, and works to create safe and inclusive spaces for self-expression.
- The Edmonton Two-Spirit Society focuses on the needs of the Two-Spirit community. They offer culturally relevant support and advocacy.
- The University of Alberta’s FyreFly Institute advocates for gender and sexual identity, and offers scholarships, programming and resources to build a more inclusive, diverse and respectful society.
By researching potential employers and highlighting your intersectional identity as an asset, you can find a workplace that respects and values your identity. As you search for a job, take care of your mental health and never tolerate discrimination. If you see discrimination, take action by reporting it.