Plexus Education Foundation Presents
Supporting LGBTQ+ Colleagues & Families
Description
This training will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ colleagues and individuals and how the practical application of this knowledge can go along way to provide inclusive engagement and policy. Some of these challenges include navigating legal frameworks, accessing healthcare services, and fostering acceptance within familial and societal contexts. Through interactive workshops, case studies, and group discussions, attendees will explore strategies for creating inclusive policies, fostering open communication, and offering meaningful support to colleagues and individuals who may be navigating these challenges.
This training is ideal for healthcare providers, HR professionals, social workers, and organizations serving LGBTQ+ communities. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to foster inclusive environments and provide meaningful support to LGBTQ+ individuals and their families.
Objectives
- Comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and families at work, within healthcare, and in social settings.
- Review issues families may be facing including legal frameworks, accessing healthcare services, navigating school policies, and fostering acceptance.
- Implement culturally competent practices that address intersectionality
- Explore strategies for creating inclusive policies, fostering open communication, and offering meaningful support to families and colleagues who may be navigating these challenges.
Components
- Foundations and Terminology: We will review essential LGBTQ+ terminology, current community demographics, and statistics that shape our understanding of diverse identities. We'll explore intersectionality within LGBTQ+ communities to understand how multiple identities influence individual experiences and needs.
- Healthcare-Specific Considerations: Healthcare access remains a critical challenge for LGBTQ+ individuals. We'll examine common health disparities, barriers to care, and strategies for creating inclusive documentation. This section covers mental health considerations and navigates insurance coverage challenges specific to LGBTQ+ healthcare needs.
- Legal Framework: Understanding current legal protections is crucial for effective support. We'll review healthcare regulations, workplace protections, and family law considerations affecting LGBTQ+ individuals. Special attention will be given to documentation requirements for identity recognition and legal name changes.
- Cultural Competency Workshop: Through interactive scenarios drawn from real cases, participants will develop practical communication skills for working with LGBTQ+ individuals. We'll practice using affirming language, avoiding assumptions, and supporting positive family dynamics.
- Policy Development: Organizations must establish inclusive policies that protect LGBTQ+ individuals. We'll review existing policies, identify gaps, and discuss comprehensive anti-discrimination protocols. This section emphasizes creating inclusive documentation while maintaining privacy and confidentiality.
- Practical Implementation: Participants will engage in role-playing exercises and case study analysis to apply learned concepts. Through group discussions, we'll address common challenges and develop action plans for implementing organizational changes that support LGBTQ+ inclusion.
- Resources and Support: The final section connects participants with essential community resources. We'll review local LGBTQ+ organizations, mental health services, legal aid resources, support groups, and crisis intervention services available to support both professionals and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Recommended Reading
 (2022). Trans Bodies, Trans Selves: A Resource by and for Transgender Communities, 2nd Ed. Oxford University Press.
Harper, A. (2024). LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Advocacy Guide: Practical Strategies, Inspiring Stories, and Guided Support to Overcome Challenges and Build Inclusive Lives. Enlightened Press, LLC.
Gelwicks, A. (2020). The Queer Advantage: Conversations with LGBTQ+ Leaders on the Power of Identity. Balance.
Vincent, B. (2018). Transgender Health: A Practitioner's Guide to Binary and Non-Binary Trans Patient Care. Jessica Kingsley Publishers
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