Seen a lot of rainbows recently? That’s probably because it’s Pride Month! While it’s great to see so many businesses getting involved and supporting the LGBTQ+ community there is something we need to be aware of and that’s ‘rainbow washing’. Carry on reading to find out more about why this is an issue and how to avoid it.
What is rainbow washing?
Rainbow washing is when businesses cover their content, products, logos, websites and social media with rainbow colours to demonstrate allyship with the LGBTQ+ community. So, what’s the problem? Well, the issue isn’t using the colours - it’s using the colours without taking further action to advocate for people in the queer community. For example, posting rainbow-heavy content without the involvement of LGTBQ+ individuals or only posting about trans rights during Pride Month and not giving it a second thought after that period etc.
Why is rainbow washing a big deal?
Companies and organisations who claim to support LGBTQ+ rights yet remain politically neutral are a problem. This is because customers and clients are falsely led to believe they are supporting LGBTQ+ communities, when the reality is that the company is marginalising them by masquerading as allies for commercial purposes.
How can I avoid rainbow washing as a healthcare professional?
Don’t just sing a rainbow! Here are a few ways you can be a better ally to the LGBTQ+ community this Pride Month…
Promote inclusivity in the workplace - e.g. displaying pronouns in your email signature, educating colleagues and revisiting patient documents to ensure they use inclusive language.
Be an active listener - give your LGBTQ+ colleagues and patients the chance for their voice to be heard by asking for feedback so improvements can be made to create a safer and happier environment for all.
Educate yourself on LBGTQ+ issues - it is your responsibility to do the research so your team members and patients don’t have to explain everything.
Speak up - if you see or hear something discriminatory, it is critical to say something and report it to a senior member of staff. There should be a zero-tolerance policy to any form of prejudice behaviour or harassment at your place of work.
We hope you found this article helpful - let’s carry on promoting inclusivity and positivity in the workplace!
After a new nursing role? You’ve come to the right place - get in touch with the MCM team on 0203 929 4010 today to learn more about our current opportunities.
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