Ok here is the problem I work in a small factory that is not lgbt friendly at all has no women other then a very old lady in quality control
I have been here 3 years and will be stuck here for at least 3 more years till my girl friend finishes school
The problem is there say very bad things about lgbt people and air hump people and talk about all sorts of inappropriate things that make me uncomfortable this includes superviors on every shift as well as coworkers
Hi Amber, it really depends where you are. I know some jurisdictions would have some state/provincial laws that will prevent discrimination against gender identity and expression. I would start reaching out to the local chapter of an LGBT organization where you are and ask for steps/guidance on how to go about it.
Knowledge is power :)
Good luck xo
April
I'm located near terre haute indiana I haven't found any lgbt groups in my area
Hi Amber,
I'm near Indianapolis and there are a few groups in Indy that meet once a month if you're willing to make the trek. Two of them meet on the same day of the month at staggered times to allow people who travel a long distance to attend both as I understand it.
As far as any laws protecting us, Indiana is pretty far behind the times from a legislative standpoint. To my knowledge gender identity isn't protected here. :( You should check to see if your company has some sort of diversity statement, most do nowadays. Gender identity is becoming pretty standard in a lot of them.
I know how you feel, I work in manufacturing in a *very* male dominated environment. Trust me, I've heard it all. It's definitely a factory environment. When I approached HR about coming out at work they were incredibly supportive and we're working through the details now. I'm planning on making my announcement publicly on Nov. 5th and will begin coming to work full time shortly after. So there is hope!
If you'd like any contact info for the groups here let me know and I can PM them to you. I'm not super familiar with one of them but I can find their info pretty easily.
Good luck, and hang in there. You're definitely not alone!
Thank you all! It's nice I know im not completely alone in this. I would definitely like some more information Emjay. I am up that way every once in a while and think it would be nice to have some support. By the way congratulations on taking such a big step, I am glad it is working out for you!
I'm sending you the info now via PM.
And thank you! I'm glad too, it's definitely time for me. :D