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IBM, Goldman Sachs, Google & Community Business jointly launch LGBT resource guide for workplaces in India

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DQI Bureau
New Update

IBM, a leading IT major with major presence in India, alongwith Goldman Sachs, Google and Community Business, a leading non-profit organization specializing in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), has launched a new resource guide for employers entitled Creating Inclusive Workplaces for LGBT Employees in India.

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The publication highlights the business case for addressing the needs of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) employees and provides the cultural and legal context for LGBT issues in India. As a practical resource, it also provides a set of recommendations on what companies can do to create inclusive workplaces for LGBT employees and includes a number of examples of good practice.

Many have long regarded it as a subject that has no place for discussion in the workplace and shrouded in taboo and stigma, companies - both local and international including several in the IT & ITeS industry, too have struggled in including this on their corporate diversity agenda.

"In compiling this report, we recognize the sensitivities and complexities involved." said Kate Vernon, co-author of the report and MD, Community Business. Community Business also particularly incorporated views from local stakeholders in India to gain insight into some of the key issues for LGBT employees in India, with regard to workplace challenges and what action can be taken by employers to create more inclusive workplaces.

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IBM, Goldman Sachs, and Google are the key drivers behind this initiative and have earned various accolades and recognition globally for their leadership in championing LGBT issues in the workplace.

"At IBM we are proud of our long history of honoring, valuing, and promoting diversity and inclusion in our workforce," said Vanitha Narayanan, executive sponsor for LGBT (India/South Asia) and managing partner of IBM Global Business Services.

"Google strives to be a company where each Googler can be exactly who they are at work. We believe that a diverse workforce is important to bring about innovation and creativity in thought and cater to our users who come from all walks of life," said Keerthana Mohan, diversity & inclusion manager, Asia Pacific.

"The Gayglers India network is one of our most active and engaged employee resource groups. Our initiatives are aimed towards creating an inclusive work environment, by sensitizing our employees and increasing awareness on LGBT issues," she added.

The publication is available for download free of charge on Community Business' website at www.communitybusiness.org

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