How to Relocate Safely as an LGBTQ+ Employee

We recently hosted a panel discussion focusing on the importance of putting safety first when it comes to relocating in business as an LGBTQ+ employee. With varying perspectives from professionals in the travel and business industries, the panel provided opportunities for helpful advice in overcoming hurdles, and suggestions as to how organizations can do more to support their LGBTQ+ staff.

As well as unique advice, they share their personal experiences as people from the community who have been impacted by relocation. Read on to find out more about their journeys and their insights, and also receive an exclusive offer with CityVue!

Host speaker Devin Ibañez, Customer Success Manager at myGwork, introduced the guests, thanking them for taking part and being so willing to share their experiences of the struggles of relocating as an LGBTQ+ employee. As someone who has relocated for work himself, he understands first-hand how the shift in social attitude and necessary research into legislation surrounding LGBTQ+ identities can impact someone.

Laila El-Metoui, Equity Educator from LemEducation.com, has also had experience in this field, and as such she understands the importance of providing LGBTQ+ individuals with a choice when it comes to arranging relocation.

“Before requesting travel, you and the organization need to conduct a thorough risk assessment of the destinations country looking at the law and social climate,” suggested Laila. “Share this information transparently with the employee ensuring that they fully understand the risks and obtain informed consent and give them the option to decline. If they feel uncomfortable, offer alternative arrangements.”

Aaron Roberson from CityVue also voiced the direct effect of relocation on his life. Not only did it impact how he felt, but he found that his presence in less progressive areas inspired confidence in other people.

“I started to share my lifestyle with people and a positive that came out of this was that a lot of people I didn’t know were looking at me were approaching me,” he shared. “People who had never come out were approaching me, wanting to share their stories and I was really humbled by it. But my relocation from San Francisco to Boston dimmed my light. It didn’t extinguish it, but it definitely dimmed it.”