WNY News Now

(WNY News Now) – New York – New York State has unveiled the findings of the Transgender Employment Study, shedding light on the pervasive discrimination faced by transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary individuals in the workplace. The report, a first-of-its-kind initiative, aims to address employment disparities and recommend policies to ensure safe and affirming workplaces for all.

New York State has taken a significant step in addressing the challenges faced by transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary (TGNCNB) individuals in the workplace by releasing the Transgender Employment Study. This pioneering report, mandated by legislation and conducted by the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) in consultation with the New York State Division of Human Rights, delves into the experiences of TGNCNB New Yorkers to identify disparities and propose solutions.

The comprehensive study employed various methods, including meetings with advocates, community leaders, five focus groups, interviews, and the collection of over 350 online public comments from across the state. The results highlight several key findings:

1. Employment discrimination based on gender identity is pervasive throughout the state.
2. TGNCNB people of color experience greater employment disparities.
3. Lack of cultural competency statewide regarding gender identity and expression.
4. Genuine fear for safety in the workplace among TGNCNB individuals.
5. Discrimination and barriers leading TGNCNB New Yorkers towards self-employment.
6. Regional differences between experiences in urban centers and rural areas.

Governor Hochul, acknowledging New York’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, stated, “This report provides a glimpse into the work lives of trans, gender non-conforming, and non-binary New Yorkers and charts a path forward on addressing the barriers they face.” The findings emphasize the need for open and affirming workplaces, with the administration pledging continued resources and protections.

The study includes recommendations for tailored policies based on engagement with the TGNCNB community, aiming to address specific challenges. Surveys indicate higher rates of unemployment, lower incomes, and less educational attainment among transgender individuals, emphasizing the need for targeted solutions.

Policy recommendations from the report include:

1. Advocating for uniform data collection regarding gender identity by Federal agencies.
2. Providing workforce development programs for TGNCNB communities.
3. Mandating cultural competency and GENDA training statewide.
4. Exploring ways to reduce barriers to obtaining affirming legal identification.
5. Modeling best practices for employers.

New York State Division of Human Rights Commissioner Maria L. Imperial emphasized the report’s importance in achieving the mission of ensuring full participation of TGNCNB individuals in the state’s economic life.

The report also addresses barriers to employment for justice-involved individuals, and those who believe they have faced discrimination can file complaints with the Division of Human Rights.

For further information and support, individuals can visit the Division of Human Rights’ website at www.dhr.ny.gov or call 1-888-392-3644.

The full study is available here.