Should I Tell My Boss to Prevent Discrimination?

[Alessa]

Would it be wise to be upfront with my boss, especially via some documented media, about my gender identity especially since I work out of the office with clients most of the time? I would like to have proof that I told my employer just in case discrimination happens, and I'd like them to have my back in case I receive discrimination from our clients. What are your thoughts on this?

[Jani]

I think it wouldn't be bad thing to speak with them, especially if you are presenting as your true self to customers.  If they are present, I would read your companies human resource policies to see where you might stand before you do make contact.   You might also brush up on your states laws and regulations concerning discrimination.  

 

Jani

[Alessa]

17 minutes ago, Jani423 said:

I think it wouldn't be bad thing to speak with them, especially if you are presenting as your true self to customers.  If they are present, I would read your companies human resource policies to see where you might stand before you do make contact.   You might also brush up on your states laws and regulations concerning discrimination.  

 

Jani

 

It would be the case that I'm appearing androgynous to customers. That's kinda what I thought too, but a lot of other people said maybe I should keep it to myself unless there's an incident. On the one hand, I'd be nervous I'd miss career opportunities if I told them, but on the other, I'm afraid they could claim they didn't know and pretend to fire me for other reasons leaving me unable to prove they knew and defend myself from discrimination.

[Charlize]

I think i'd let it go unless it becomes an issue with a client or your employer.  If it wasn't discussed when you were hired and you haven't   largely changed your presentation then it shouldn't be an issue in any case.  If one transitions it is different in that there is paperwork, name changes and other issues to consider.  Hopefully you won't find and issue with a non-binary presentation.

 

Hugs,

 

Charlize

[Jani]

Yes I agree with Charlize as you are just appearing androgynous.  I misread your post.  

 

But I still suggest learning about your company HR and discrimination policies.  Just to be ready to defend yourself in case of need.  Hopefully it won't be necessary.  

Jani

[tracy_j]

I agree with Charlize and Jani here.

 

I spent several years at work in a similar situation, visiting clients in very androgynous form, generally wearing makeup.  Working in healthcare it was perhaps not unusual and I knew discrimination is unusual and generally heavily jumped upon. The only time I remember it being slightly uncomfortable was once when a visited a school and a group of girls in class got the giggles Apart from schools, my visits were to all ages and classes, both in inner city and rural areas. I must admit the management were aware, if only by my appearance.

 

It really depends upon the situation and area you are in, but being relaxed and 'down to earth' makes a lot of difference. If you are confident and relaxed then most people will be Ok. Yes - learn the company rules and check if anyone has had dealings in the past, but don't raise the issue as it may provoke confrontation in some people. If you are not planning any immediate gender change then really it is not a legal issue.

 

Tracy

[Alessa]

Thank you all so much. I really appreciate your responses!

 

The consensus seems to be to keep it to myself, and be prepared to document potential harassment, and only then make an issue out of it. I think that is the route I'll take. Phew - that's a load off!

 

@tracy_j, your experience sounds a lot like my potential situation. I really appreciate you sharing that.

 

I've read the HR policy on the dress code, and it says not to wear anything casual - to keep it business appropriate, which I think even in the unlikely event I'm brave enough to wear woman's clothing to work, so long as it's business-attire, it technically shouldn't be an issue. I took your advice looking at legal issues, and if I'm understanding it correctly, both my state and the federal law protect against discrimination based on sex which may include pregnancy, gender identity, or orientation as well as biological sex organs.