Minister of State Joe O’Brien has today “officially launched” a new video designed to show viewers how to use a previously published document which recommended that all forms should provide “alternative options to male and female”.
“I am pleased to see the production of this new resource which demonstrates how the ‘Guide for Inclusive Community Engagement in Local Planning and Decision Making’ can be best utilised,” O’Brien said in a statement.
“…This new tool can be used as a reference when organisations are preparing and planning to consult with marginalised communities and the groups which represent them. The Guide and supporting resources, builds on Ireland’s commitment to the Sustainable Development principle of ‘Leave no one behind’.”
Notably, the document in question – ‘Guide for Inclusive Community Engagement in Local Planning and Decision Making’ – was developed collaboratively by various State and State-funded organisations, including the Department of Rural and Community Development.
As previously covered by Gript, the document includes input from LGBT Ireland, a state-funded advocacy group, which emphasises that any forms distributed by organisations should provide gender options beyond just “male” or “female.”
“Check your language!” the document states.
“If your organisation requires clients to complete a form, make sure that those forms reflect LGBTQI+ lives. For example: don’t assume that every family has a mother and a father; provide alternative options to male and female.”
The document further advises that staff should introduce themselves with their pronouns in online meetings and emails, including options like “they” and “them”.
“Include your pronouns,” it instructs.
“Use your pronouns in email signatures and when using online meeting platforms. For example: ‘Yours sincerely, Jo Smith (pronouns, they/them)’.”
The document also recommends that organisations provide LGBT+ awareness training. LGBT Ireland, which promotes this advice, offers such training sessions as part of its fundraising efforts.
“Avail of LGBTQI+ training for your staff,” it says.
“Training helps staff to: increase their understanding of the challenges facing LGBTQI+ people; [and] feel more confident when working with members of the community. Training is also a good way to support your LGBTQI+ staff members.”
Similarly, it suggests that organisations should “link with national groups” like LGBT Ireland to further support LGBT inclusivity.
“Link in with national organisations, like LGBT Ireland, to access resources, supports and information to help you make your space more LGBTQI+ inclusive,” it notes.
The document also encourages holding LGBT events year-round, beyond just Pride Month in June.
“Hold year-round events Remember that LGBTQI+ people are here all year around – not just for Pride Month in June,” it states.
“It is wonderful to see events and supports in June but this inclusivity should be reflected throughout the year.”
Additionally, it advises that LGBTQI+ voices should consistently be “amplified”.
“Amplify LGBTQI+ people’s voices,” it says, adding: “While members of the community are best placed to understand and speak about their own experiences, we rely on our allies to help us to be heard.”