FOSTERING, WELCOMING AND AFFIRMING SPACES
A GUIDE FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES
WHY?
LGBTQ+-friendly businesses obtain higher profits, and corporations obtain higher stock market valuations
Businesses with the most diversity are 36% more likely to outperform the industry median. 49% of people are more likely to purchase a product from a brand if it supports diversity and inclusion initiatives
Inclusive businesses are more competitive in the labor market by fostering the ability to attract, recruit, and retain talented employees of all identities
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Feelings of safety and comfort while in standard spaces in the community, such as local businesses, is a basic human right often overlooked by privileged, majority populations.
Fostering inclusive and welcoming spaces can significantly increase the quality of life for LGBTQ+ people.
Local businesses can play a significant role in building communal support and creating safe spaces!
These steps will help expand economic opportunities for your business and for LGBTQ+ customers or clients.
AUTHENTIC ALLYSHIP
Being genuine in your allyship is vital to producing positive outcomes. To successfully implement these practices, you need to follow through on your commitment for inclusion.
Hold yourself, your staff, and your patrons accountable for creating and maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space!
ACTION STEPS
ADVERTISE AS LGBTQ+ FRIENDLY
Tag your business as LGBTQ+
friendly online or become
certified through the National
LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce.
USE ENVIRONMENTAL CUES
Incorporate visible indicators of
your support, such as stickers,
flags, or listing pronouns on
employee name tags to signal
that your business is safe,
inclusive, and welcoming.
IMPLEMENT ANTI-
DISCRIMINATION POLICIES
Set expectations consumers and
employees that harassment and
discrimination are not welcome in
your business.
Anti-discrimination policies lead
to improved job satisfaction,
psychological well-being, and
lower job-related stress. LGBT-
supportive policies linked to
greater job commitment,
increased job satisfaction, and
better health outcomes among
LGBT employees.
GET INVOLVED
Make an effort to become more
involved and connected with
the queer community, by
sponsoring or tabling at pride
events or being a space for
queer events and groups to
gather.
PRIORITIZE EDUCATION
Educate yourself and your
employees on how to be an
inclusive space.
Visit inclusivegf.com for more
information on resources,
recommendations, and training
opportunities.
Funded by UND CONNECT
Research Serving North Dakota