LGBTQIA+

LGBTQIA+

The Career Center at Lewis & Clark is dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ students in their career development. LGBTQIA+ students may encounter specific challenges as they explore and pursue their career goals. You may have questions about workplace culture, professional expectations, and how to navigate spaces where people do not share your background. You don’t have to navigate these questions alone.

Career Challenges

LGBTQIA+ students often face particular career barriers (CW: harassment, discrimination). These challenges often surface in the hiring process, where LGBTQIA+ candidates need to gauge workplace openness towards their identity. You might also face discrimination in the interview process as well. Transgender individuals also experience disproportionately high rates of discrimination in the hiring process. Upon being hired, LGBTQIA+ folk then need to navigate their sexuality in the workplace, including when/whether/how to disclose their identity, etc.

These challenges are complicated by an unclear legal landscape. In 2019, Governor Kate Brown signed an executive order guaranteeing equal legal treatment for the LGBTQIA+ community. Oregon state law protects all employees from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender expression or identity. However, protections tend to vary from state to state. The Career Center at Lewis and Clark is unable to provide legal advice. The information provided on this page is not a substitute for legal advice from an attorney.

Support for Career Development

Knowing these obstacles, the Career Center is here to:

• Help LGBTQIA+ students search for employers that promote inclusive environments, including using various tools and methods
• Connect LGBTQIA+ students to legal resources in cases of workplace discrimination and harassment
• Discuss with sensitivity their decision to disclose (or not to disclose) sexual orientation or gender identity in the workplace
• Provide guidance on how to gauge LGBTQIA+ openness in potential and current workplaces
• Offer opportunities to network with LGBTQIA+ alumni and connect with them and learn about their careers and experiences.
• Assist with navigating “professional” environments, including clothing, dress, and presentation in ways that respect the authenticity, identities, and wishes of students.

Resources and Links

LGBTQIA+ Resources at LC

Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index

Career Exploration: LGBTQIA+ Professional Associations by Industry

Questions or want to connect? The Career Center is here to support you as you navigate your career journey. Reach out to our team to discuss your career goals, explore resources, or talk through questions about LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the workplace.