Since the publication of our Social Impact report, we have been reflecting on how far Thoughtworks has come when it comes to our efforts to progress LGBTQ+ inclusion in the UK. And how much more there is to do.
Following on from our recent internal celebrations of bi colleagues, clients, family and friends as part of Bi Visibility Day 2021, we recognise the challenges many of the LGBTQ+ community continue to face, most recently highlighted with the ongoing rhetoric surrounding trans rights in the press, which favours the belief that sex is binary and takes precedence over gender identity.
Thoughtworks’ UK leadership team believes that acknowledging the rights of lesbian, gay and bi people, and not the rights of trans, non-binary and queer people, is not inclusive of the diverse and intersectional community we are proud to call our family.
As a company we constantly strive to create the most inclusive environment we can. We will continue to support LGBTQ+ colleagues through our policies, our practices and our behaviours. We have zero tolerance towards transphobia, biphobia, homophobia, deliberate mis-gendering or any other repeated microaggressions at Thoughtworks. This is the responsibility of the entire community and organisation to tackle, to make our workplaces inclusive and safe for everyone. We believe everyone should feel able to bring their whole authentic selves to work.
Thoughtworks commits to take action that will place us on the right side of history. Time and time again, the work of activists and others provides much-needed solace, solidarity and a platform to propel LGBTQ+ rights into the mainstream. We stand in solidarity with those working to ensure equal rights for all people.
Disclaimer: The statements and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Thoughtworks.
