3 Things Cisgender Leaders Can Learn From the Resilience and Courage of Trans Executives

American corporations are facing a significant image problem. The rise of young entertainers like Lisa Beasley, DeAndre Brown, and Nicole Daniels has brought to light the toxic undercurrents of corporate and nonprofit culture through their engaging social media content. This signals a warning for corporate leadership as their commentary, though delivered through humor, highlights the disconnection between traditional corporate environments and the values and expectations of a new generation of talent.

In a 2020 Harvard Business Review article titled  “Creating a Trans-Inclusive Workplace,” Christian N. Thoroughgood, Katina Sawyer, and Jennica R. Webster found that in a 2015 survey 27,715 Trans folx, 77% of those who held a job took steps such as hiding their gender identity, delaying their transition, or ignoring misgendering. This is before you get to the qualified, unemployed Trans folx who never even got through the interview process due to some form of bias.

In our flagship newsletter, Perspectives for Progress, we covered the passing of Cecilia Gentili, a legendary executive and community leader. The outpouring of love from the young trans and LGBTQ+ community has revealed a profound and enduring legacy. It reminded us that a leadership role does not equate to callousness or the devaluation of human beings as disposable commodities. Real corporate social responsibility stems from how we care for and nurture the real lives entrusted to us in the workplace.

Here are 3 valuable lessons cisgender leaders can learn from the enduring legacy of Trans leaders like Cecilia Gentili:

• Authentic Leadership Style: Emphasizing authenticity and empathy in leadership to foster a culture of honesty and understanding in the corporate environment.
• Inclusive Organizational Practices: Implementing inclusive practices and policies that support diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, fostering an environment where every individual feels valued and understood.
• Navigating Adversity and Change: Developing resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges, inspiring a culture that supports individuals during times of change and uncertainty.

By recognizing the influential legacy of leaders like Cecilia Gentili and drawing from their experiences, cisgender and LGTQ+ leaders alike can cultivate a corporate environment that values authenticity, inclusivity, and resilience, and ensures a positive and empowering workplace for all.

Support the legacy of Cecilia Gentili, and diversify your contract hiring practices. For example, consider hiring Trans Equity Consulting for work at your firm or nonprofit organization.