On National Coming Out Day (October 11), I had the honor of moderating a panel discussion about dismantling workplace barriers for transgender and non-binary (TNB) people at Portland State University’s School of Business. The event was organized for participants interested in learning more about the workplace barriers TNB people in the Portland Metropolitan Area endure, and how community members can help dismantle them. Students, business leaders, elected officials, and government executives all showed up to the event to gain new knowledge, skills, and support in being a part of a community effort to expand economic opportunities for TNB people.

This Saturday, Rhodes Perry Consulting collaborates with the Portland Area Business Association (aka the City’s LGBTQ Chamber) and NedSpace to host a community listening session focused on dismantling workplace barriers organized by and for transgender and non-binary Portland residents. Community leaders seek community-informed recommendations as to how to dismantle these barriers with the goal of educating local businesses, government officials, nonprofit organizations, and funders. There’s still a few free tickets available to participate, and local transgender and non-binary folks along with allies can secure seats here.

Belonging – it's the reason why I started my business, and it's the driving force behind why I've dedicated my career to inspiring others to open their hearts and minds to new people, ideas, and experiences. As I continue to build a purpose-driven business designed to make it easier for professionals to bring their whole selves to work, I am eager to learn more about the specific challenges you are looking to address, and how I can offer support or guidance. I encourage you to let me know how I can help by sending a quick email.

Earlier this month I had the privilege of presenting at Project Harmony’s 10th Annual Speaking of Children Conference in Omaha, Nebraska. I was asked to lead a series of breakout sessions helping child welfare practitioners understand the needs of LGBTQ young people in foster care settings. After the session, I shared 10 resources to support child welfare practitioners deliver LGBTQ affirming services. If you find these resources helpful, subscribe to the RPC Newsletter, where you’ll receive exclusive content like next Friday’s (5/5) complimentary webinar all about creating inclusive organizations for LGBTQ stakeholders. Register today by clicking here: http://www.rhodesperry.com/register.

In 2016 alone, 22 states are in the process of considering over 100 bills that would prohibit transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) people from accessing the restroom that matches their gender identity. On a more promising front, cities like Portland are taking action to protect and affirm TGNC people. This post focuses on how to implement such protections, and shares an example of how Washington, DC’s #safebathroomsDC campaign converted over 100 single user restrooms within the first month of its launch.