In a recent development, Indeed, the renowned job search and recruitment firm, has initiated a groundbreaking program aimed at supporting transgender employees and their immediate family members.
The program offers a financial grant of $10,000 to facilitate relocation for those facing challenges due to restrictive laws concerning transgender healthcare.
Although the program was officially launched in July, it has only been made public recently. This decision to unveil the initiative was prompted by concerns expressed by employees regarding anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in states such as Texas and Florida, as reported by Bloomberg. Already, this program has positively impacted at least one individual, Sam Burger, a senior content creator who relocated from Texas to Colorado after Indeed introduced this supportive initiative.
A weight being lifted
Sam Burger shared their experience, stating, “As soon as I found out that I was getting the money, it was very much like a weight lifted,” in an interview with Bloomberg. Misty Gaither, the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Indeed, revealed that the company is committed to covering any taxes associated with the relocation funds, which are treated as stipends.
Indeed’s new program is part of a growing trend among employers offering similar forms of assistance despite potential backlash from conservative quarters. For instance, financial software giant Intuit, which has been hosting an internal “Trans+ Summit” since 2020, has also extended relocation benefits to transgender employees. One such employee, Jessica Darke, recounted how the company helped her move from Arizona to Connecticut in an interview with Fortune back in June.
Additionally, the Air Force announced last year that it would assist transgender service members and their families in relocating if they were stationed in states with discriminatory laws.
Creating a safe environment
These policies represent significant strides towards creating a safe environment for transgender workers both at home and in the workplace. However, true economic justice necessitates ensuring steady income opportunities for transgender individuals from the outset. A study conducted in 2021 revealed that transgender adults are nearly twice as likely to face unemployment compared to their cisgender counterparts. Moreover, those who are employed typically earn an average of $17,000 less per year.
Sam Burger expressed enthusiasm about Indeed’s efforts, stating, “Folks want to work at a company that they perceive is taking care of employees.” Perhaps with its considerable recruitment capabilities, Indeed can further empower and support more individuals in the transgender community through gainful employment opportunities.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
