Explore the complexities of fostering a healthy “Speak Up” culture in the workplace amid ongoing debates and divisive issues.

Addressing topics like LGBTQ+ rights and military involvement, we strive to create an inclusive environment where all opinions are valued. Learn how to combat discrimination, encourage open dialogue, and protect your organization with Syntrio’s compliance hotline and training services. Together, let’s build a respectful and informed path toward a more harmonious and inclusive world.    

For example: Choosing to look at just these two issues in the wider debate around our changing workforce and culture, we can see that both LGBTQ+ people and military veterans too often find themselves at the center of divisive debates, which can make it difficult to cultivate an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to voice their opinions and concerns.  

Anti-LGBTQ+ Rhetoric

Recent reports by the Human Rights Campaign reveals that, despite advancements in LGBTQ+ rights across the United States, there is still active work to be done. Many states have enacted legislation that restricts transgender individuals’ access to gender-affirming care restrooms and athletic programs; limits healthcare options for LGBTQ+ youth; and allows religious exemptions for discrimination against LGBTQ+ people.  

According to the MAP Project, 22 % of the LGBTQ population lives in states that permit state-licensed child welfare agencies to refuse to place and provide services to children and families, including LGBTQ people and same-sex couples, if doing so conflicts with their religious beliefs. 

And 20 % of the LGBTQ population lives in states that have targeted religious exemption that permits medical professionals to decline to serve LGBTQ clients. These actions not only perpetuate inequality but also create an atmosphere of fear and exclusion. 

Anti-Military Rhetoric

Beginning in 2022, the anti-war movement of the 60’s and 70’s was renewed following tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Protests escalated in February 2022, after Russia invaded Ukraine.

As the Ukrainian war (and the associated US financial and military support) continue to be debated especially in conjunction with the recent US Debt Limit debates; anti-military rhetoric is another significant challenge to a “Speak Up” culture, particularly from those who believe the government should not be involved at all in global crises.  

While it is essential to foster diverse perspectives, negative rhetoric can create a hostile environment for employees with military backgrounds, or families with military experience, discouraging them from openly expressing their experiences and opinions. 

It is crucial to acknowledge that individuals’ viewpoints on military involvement can vary widely and are shaped by personal beliefs and experiences. However, it is equally important to respect the sacrifices and experiences of those who have served in the armed forces. Dismissing or denigrating their contributions can lead to an atmosphere of division and hinder the free exchange of ideas in the workplace. 

The Business Bottom Line 

Employers must encourage open dialogue, free from judgment or hostility, to bridge the gap between differing viewpoints. This open dialogue can be achieved through anti-harassment workforce training, workshops, presentations, or panel discussions that foster understanding and empathy. By creating a safe and inclusive work environment, businesses can promote mutual respect and ensure that all voices are heard. 

Establishing a strong and respectful “Speak Up” culture in today’s polarized world can be challenging, especially in the face of discriminating rhetoric of any kind. Businesses have a responsibility to foster an environment that values empathy, accuracy, and understanding.  

By actively combating discrimination, implementing inclusive policies, and encouraging open dialogue, organizations can create a workplace where all employees feel safe and empowered to express their thoughts and ideas. And in protecting both your employees and your organization with a strong ethics hotline – your organization can preserve your compliance through anonymity, formality and confidentiality.  

In our collective efforts to create a more inclusive and respectful society, it is crucial to recognize the importance of training, building a workforce with the critical thinking capabilities to recognize and share only accurate information. And in doing so with empathy, and the openness to listen to diverse perspectives.  

By charting a respectful and informed path, businesses can grow while setting an example and contributing to the progress toward a more harmonious and inclusive world. At Syntrio, we can protect you and your employees with our comprehensive compliance hotline and our compliance training services.