Inclusive conversations: Involving everyone on gender-specific topics
Dec 19, 2023
Image credits: https://george-labs.com/gender-inclusive-language/
The discourse around "female" topics have historically been limited to women, often excluding men and other genders from the conversation. Whether it's reproductive health, gender equality, or societal expectations, these discussions have immense value when inclusive [1][2]. Involving everyone fosters understanding, empathy, and a more comprehensive perspective. So, how can we bridge this gap and make these conversations inclusive for all genders?
Encourage active participation
Encouraging active involvement from men and other genders is vital, yet it remains a challenge for many organizations. Men often feel these discussions aren't directed toward them. One effective approach is to initiate dialogues acknowledging that diverse perspectives enrich these conversations. For instance, creating workshops where participants share personal stories about how gender-related issues affect them directly could be a powerful exercise. These stories could then be discussed openly, encouraging empathy and understanding among participants.
Education and awareness
Many people may feel hesitant to engage in discussions about "female" topics due to a lack of understanding or fear of saying something wrong. Providing educational resources and initiating awareness campaigns can bridge this gap, as many stereotypes and stigmas hinder open conversations. Workshops, articles, and talks can enlighten individuals about the importance of these discussions and clear up misconceptions.
At Revol Health, we conducted an exercise involving anonymous polls to facilitate the conversation around the sensitive topic of "menstrual health and menopause at work". Our hypothesis is that discussing these topics based on a poll is more comfortable than expressing an opinion directly, especially in areas often surrounded by taboo and stigma. This approach also encourages inquiries about the poll's subject matter without revealing any individual's specific lack of knowledge.
We are also working on alternative tools to facilitate sharing the persona experiences.
Normalize the conversation
Normalize the inclusion of men and other genders in these discussions. Avoid segregating topics as exclusively "female." For instance, instead of framing it as "women's health," broaden the conversation to encompass "reproductive health for everyone." This shift in language promotes inclusivity and encourages participation from all genders.
Lead by example
Leaders in various fields can set the tone for inclusive conversations. By actively involving people of different genders in discussions about "female" topics, they pave the way for others to follow suit. Their actions say a lot and inspire a culture of inclusivity.
In conclusion, Involving men and other genders in discussions about "female" topics isn't just about inclusion; it's about enriching the conversation and creating a safe and non-judgmental space. Diverse perspectives lead to better insights and solutions. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, education, and empathy, individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences without fear of being invalidated or misunderstood, and we pave the way for more meaningful and comprehensive discussions that benefit society as a whole [3]. It's time to embrace the diversity of voices in these conversations and move towards a more inclusive future.
Contact us at Revol Health or team@revol.health and share your thoughts with us.
Stay updated, follow us on LinkedIn and join the conversation to revol(utionize) workplace today.
References:
[1] Collins J. Health care of women in the workplace. Health Care Women Int. 1990;11(1):21-32. doi: 10.1080/07399339009515872. PMID: 2298687.
[2] Results of the ‘Women’s Health – Let's talk about it’ survey. Retrieved December 16, 2023, from https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1043211/results-of-the-womens-health-lets-talk-about-it-survey.pdf
[3] The consequences of neglecting women’s health in the workplace. Retrieved December 14, 2023, from https://www.axahealth.co.uk/globalassets/menopause-support/corporate/axa-health-workplace-report.pdf
The discourse around "female" topics have historically been limited to women, often excluding men and other genders from the conversation. Whether it's reproductive health, gender equality, or societal expectations, these discussions have immense value when inclusive [1][2]. Involving everyone fosters understanding, empathy, and a more comprehensive perspective. So, how can we bridge this gap and make these conversations inclusive for all genders?
Encourage active participation
Encouraging active involvement from men and other genders is vital, yet it remains a challenge for many organizations. Men often feel these discussions aren't directed toward them. One effective approach is to initiate dialogues acknowledging that diverse perspectives enrich these conversations. For instance, creating workshops where participants share personal stories about how gender-related issues affect them directly could be a powerful exercise. These stories could then be discussed openly, encouraging empathy and understanding among participants.
Education and awareness
Many people may feel hesitant to engage in discussions about "female" topics due to a lack of understanding or fear of saying something wrong. Providing educational resources and initiating awareness campaigns can bridge this gap, as many stereotypes and stigmas hinder open conversations. Workshops, articles, and talks can enlighten individuals about the importance of these discussions and clear up misconceptions.
At Revol Health, we conducted an exercise involving anonymous polls to facilitate the conversation around the sensitive topic of "menstrual health and menopause at work". Our hypothesis is that discussing these topics based on a poll is more comfortable than expressing an opinion directly, especially in areas often surrounded by taboo and stigma. This approach also encourages inquiries about the poll's subject matter without revealing any individual's specific lack of knowledge.
We are also working on alternative tools to facilitate sharing the persona experiences.
Normalize the conversation
Normalize the inclusion of men and other genders in these discussions. Avoid segregating topics as exclusively "female." For instance, instead of framing it as "women's health," broaden the conversation to encompass "reproductive health for everyone." This shift in language promotes inclusivity and encourages participation from all genders.
Lead by example
Leaders in various fields can set the tone for inclusive conversations. By actively involving people of different genders in discussions about "female" topics, they pave the way for others to follow suit. Their actions say a lot and inspire a culture of inclusivity.
In conclusion, Involving men and other genders in discussions about "female" topics isn't just about inclusion; it's about enriching the conversation and creating a safe and non-judgmental space. Diverse perspectives lead to better insights and solutions. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, education, and empathy, individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences without fear of being invalidated or misunderstood, and we pave the way for more meaningful and comprehensive discussions that benefit society as a whole [3]. It's time to embrace the diversity of voices in these conversations and move towards a more inclusive future.
Contact us at Revol Health or team@revol.health and share your thoughts with us.
Stay updated, follow us on LinkedIn and join the conversation to revol(utionize) workplace today.
References:
[1] Collins J. Health care of women in the workplace. Health Care Women Int. 1990;11(1):21-32. doi: 10.1080/07399339009515872. PMID: 2298687.
[2] Results of the ‘Women’s Health – Let's talk about it’ survey. Retrieved December 16, 2023, from https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1043211/results-of-the-womens-health-lets-talk-about-it-survey.pdf
[3] The consequences of neglecting women’s health in the workplace. Retrieved December 14, 2023, from https://www.axahealth.co.uk/globalassets/menopause-support/corporate/axa-health-workplace-report.pdf
The discourse around "female" topics have historically been limited to women, often excluding men and other genders from the conversation. Whether it's reproductive health, gender equality, or societal expectations, these discussions have immense value when inclusive [1][2]. Involving everyone fosters understanding, empathy, and a more comprehensive perspective. So, how can we bridge this gap and make these conversations inclusive for all genders?
Encourage active participation
Encouraging active involvement from men and other genders is vital, yet it remains a challenge for many organizations. Men often feel these discussions aren't directed toward them. One effective approach is to initiate dialogues acknowledging that diverse perspectives enrich these conversations. For instance, creating workshops where participants share personal stories about how gender-related issues affect them directly could be a powerful exercise. These stories could then be discussed openly, encouraging empathy and understanding among participants.
Education and awareness
Many people may feel hesitant to engage in discussions about "female" topics due to a lack of understanding or fear of saying something wrong. Providing educational resources and initiating awareness campaigns can bridge this gap, as many stereotypes and stigmas hinder open conversations. Workshops, articles, and talks can enlighten individuals about the importance of these discussions and clear up misconceptions.
At Revol Health, we conducted an exercise involving anonymous polls to facilitate the conversation around the sensitive topic of "menstrual health and menopause at work". Our hypothesis is that discussing these topics based on a poll is more comfortable than expressing an opinion directly, especially in areas often surrounded by taboo and stigma. This approach also encourages inquiries about the poll's subject matter without revealing any individual's specific lack of knowledge.
We are also working on alternative tools to facilitate sharing the persona experiences.
Normalize the conversation
Normalize the inclusion of men and other genders in these discussions. Avoid segregating topics as exclusively "female." For instance, instead of framing it as "women's health," broaden the conversation to encompass "reproductive health for everyone." This shift in language promotes inclusivity and encourages participation from all genders.
Lead by example
Leaders in various fields can set the tone for inclusive conversations. By actively involving people of different genders in discussions about "female" topics, they pave the way for others to follow suit. Their actions say a lot and inspire a culture of inclusivity.
In conclusion, Involving men and other genders in discussions about "female" topics isn't just about inclusion; it's about enriching the conversation and creating a safe and non-judgmental space. Diverse perspectives lead to better insights and solutions. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, education, and empathy, individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences without fear of being invalidated or misunderstood, and we pave the way for more meaningful and comprehensive discussions that benefit society as a whole [3]. It's time to embrace the diversity of voices in these conversations and move towards a more inclusive future.
Contact us at Revol Health or team@revol.health and share your thoughts with us.
Stay updated, follow us on LinkedIn and join the conversation to revol(utionize) workplace today.
References:
[1] Collins J. Health care of women in the workplace. Health Care Women Int. 1990;11(1):21-32. doi: 10.1080/07399339009515872. PMID: 2298687.
[2] Results of the ‘Women’s Health – Let's talk about it’ survey. Retrieved December 16, 2023, from https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1043211/results-of-the-womens-health-lets-talk-about-it-survey.pdf
[3] The consequences of neglecting women’s health in the workplace. Retrieved December 14, 2023, from https://www.axahealth.co.uk/globalassets/menopause-support/corporate/axa-health-workplace-report.pdf
The discourse around "female" topics have historically been limited to women, often excluding men and other genders from the conversation. Whether it's reproductive health, gender equality, or societal expectations, these discussions have immense value when inclusive [1][2]. Involving everyone fosters understanding, empathy, and a more comprehensive perspective. So, how can we bridge this gap and make these conversations inclusive for all genders?
Encourage active participation
Encouraging active involvement from men and other genders is vital, yet it remains a challenge for many organizations. Men often feel these discussions aren't directed toward them. One effective approach is to initiate dialogues acknowledging that diverse perspectives enrich these conversations. For instance, creating workshops where participants share personal stories about how gender-related issues affect them directly could be a powerful exercise. These stories could then be discussed openly, encouraging empathy and understanding among participants.
Education and awareness
Many people may feel hesitant to engage in discussions about "female" topics due to a lack of understanding or fear of saying something wrong. Providing educational resources and initiating awareness campaigns can bridge this gap, as many stereotypes and stigmas hinder open conversations. Workshops, articles, and talks can enlighten individuals about the importance of these discussions and clear up misconceptions.
At Revol Health, we conducted an exercise involving anonymous polls to facilitate the conversation around the sensitive topic of "menstrual health and menopause at work". Our hypothesis is that discussing these topics based on a poll is more comfortable than expressing an opinion directly, especially in areas often surrounded by taboo and stigma. This approach also encourages inquiries about the poll's subject matter without revealing any individual's specific lack of knowledge.
We are also working on alternative tools to facilitate sharing the persona experiences.
Normalize the conversation
Normalize the inclusion of men and other genders in these discussions. Avoid segregating topics as exclusively "female." For instance, instead of framing it as "women's health," broaden the conversation to encompass "reproductive health for everyone." This shift in language promotes inclusivity and encourages participation from all genders.
Lead by example
Leaders in various fields can set the tone for inclusive conversations. By actively involving people of different genders in discussions about "female" topics, they pave the way for others to follow suit. Their actions say a lot and inspire a culture of inclusivity.
In conclusion, Involving men and other genders in discussions about "female" topics isn't just about inclusion; it's about enriching the conversation and creating a safe and non-judgmental space. Diverse perspectives lead to better insights and solutions. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, education, and empathy, individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences without fear of being invalidated or misunderstood, and we pave the way for more meaningful and comprehensive discussions that benefit society as a whole [3]. It's time to embrace the diversity of voices in these conversations and move towards a more inclusive future.
Contact us at Revol Health or team@revol.health and share your thoughts with us.
Stay updated, follow us on LinkedIn and join the conversation to revol(utionize) workplace today.
References:
[1] Collins J. Health care of women in the workplace. Health Care Women Int. 1990;11(1):21-32. doi: 10.1080/07399339009515872. PMID: 2298687.
[2] Results of the ‘Women’s Health – Let's talk about it’ survey. Retrieved December 16, 2023, from https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1043211/results-of-the-womens-health-lets-talk-about-it-survey.pdf
[3] The consequences of neglecting women’s health in the workplace. Retrieved December 14, 2023, from https://www.axahealth.co.uk/globalassets/menopause-support/corporate/axa-health-workplace-report.pdf