It would appear that “corporate America”, has on the whole, historically been afraid of LGBT folks expressing themselves fully. Now, of course, “corporate America” won’t tell you that. They are only open to it, because they have no choice. At least, in California, it’s the law (thank you Harvey Milk).
There are some corporations who hire LGBT people by the masses, yet, even hugging someone of the same sex while at work is against policy. This same company heavily markets products toward children, and, no doubt, the heads of that company are afraid that “being gay” while at work will cause them undo harm, no doubt.
But, in the end, do kids really care? All they care about is their candy, their toys, getting their immediate needs and wants met, and playing with others like them – for the most part.
It’s too bad. More people should think from a child’s point of view.
Now, there are certainly some companies that are more accepting. I did happen to notice a cloth ring on a gentleman’s hand that was rainbow colored. The colors were specifically the gay rainbow. He is a sales associate at a famous, worldwide office supply chain store. Now, could he kiss another guy while on the floor? Maybe. Maybe not. It’s those “underwritten rules” that are always both questionable, and annoying, because so often, we are having to read our bosses brains.
Sucks, eh?
As for myself, I am quite open about my life with my husband while at work. While he hasn’t stated his homosexuality, my direct superior is happily flaming. Usually, if others don’t talk about, or look at the opposite sex, than you can generally guess. So, I am lucky to be in such an open environment.
At least, in California, for the most part, if you are gay, you are accepted in the workplace. Even though it is the law to hire you, no matter what your sexuality, no doubt, there are many companies out there who do not.
One case I find particularly interesting, while not on the direct subject of being gay, is Lawry’s Prime Rib. They have traditionally had only women as servers. And usually older women at that. A number of months ago, someone made a big stink about it, and they had to hire some men. I have been back to that restaurant a number of times since then, and have been hard pressed to find a male server.
Yes, America is opening up. Starbucks sports the BEST PLACES TO WORK 2009 for LGBT Equality – 100% CORPORATE EQUALITY INDEX. That is incredibly admirable. They don’t want the hassles that anything otherwise could bring, and they no doubt understand the potential monetary benefits from marketing such things.
Not to say that other companies that do have that, that don’t necessarily put that on their web page are keeping LGBT people out. Obviously not. However, I at least know that I feel that much more comfortable shopping there! And, not only. Starbucks is known for their social responsibility, as it permeates within their corporate culture.
More should take a lesson.