Wednesday, August 21, 2024

This is what allyship looks like


"Please know that there is a more than insignificant chance that a lesbian prepared your food last evening. A gay man might have mixed your drinks. A trans woman may have trained your server to give you such great service. A person who identifies with -- get this -- they/them pronouns may have sat you at your table."

That was just a part of the scathing comment the executive of The Original Vinnie's left on a customer's Google review, which used a gay slur to express his displeasure with the perceived sexual orientation of others in the restaurant during a recent visit.

The exec's comment continued by praising the restaurant's diversity, including its LGBTQ+ employees, and invited the customer not to return.

This is how you demonstrate allyship.

Being an ally to your employees isn't just a moral choice, it's a business imperative. When employers actively support and advocate for their employees, it creates a culture of trust, respect, and inclusivity.

Indeed, allyship directly impacts employee retention. People want to work somewhere where they can be their authentic selves. When people feel supported and understood, they are more likely to remain loyal to the organization, reducing turnover and enhancing morale. It also strengthens your brand reputation within the community, making it easier to recruit employees and customers.

Let's commit to allyship, not just because it’s the smart thing to do for our people and our businesses, but because it's also the right thing to do as human beings.