Fostering an Inclusive Workspace for LGBTQIA2S+ Employees at Soho House

Shaquille, Graham and Tatiana from Soho House spoke to myGwork about what it means to be an LGBTQIA2S+ ally. Discussing their positive experiences at Soho House, as well as providing examples of direct allyship from the company, they all describe the value and importance of being a vocal ally to the community.

Shaquille – Reception Manager, Greek Street

Why do you think allies are important?

Allies are in and/or navigate spaces that don’t often have representation whether it is socially or professionally. Their ability to relate to the next person of the same socioeconomic, racial, national and sexual background gives them the opportunity to reason with, or more aggressively debunk any isms and biases that person may have.  They are able to enter spaces and create opportunity, to make a place setting for the less heard and fight the battle for those who may otherwise feel discouraged, tired or scared when entering those spaces. That being said, I often see allies, true allies, are able to carry the baton and help win the race for the disenfranchised. 

How do you define what an LGBTQIA2S+ ally is?

They are down for the cause! They’ve taken time to observe and listen to queer voices. They understand and do not impose their opinions as they have not had the same lived experiences of someone who is openly queer. They celebrate and are not ashamed to call them a friend (if that is the case). They fight fiercely and unabashedly but also create joy and light! 

What’s an example you’ve experienced or had with allyship at Soho House?

An example I have was with hiring as I became a manager. I came in with a clear aim to make a fun, inclusive team. I wanted the variations of members who came through the door to be able to relate to someone on the desk or hosting on the floors. I had naysayers that made comments such as ‘we need to get back to what it was like before’ which didn’t discourage me but naturally planted a seed. I had allies around me who encouraged me to continue and celebrated my hiring (they are great people, who still are in the company and have moved upwards) which was major for me as a junior manager. Forever grateful. 

How can allies foster an inclusive workplace at Soho House?

Allies in Soho House should be doing the above to create an inclusive workplace. It is not just championing people who are in a position and have a general understanding and vision of diversity and inclusion in leadership roles. Yes, this is important! However, on the ground, if we take the experience of a waiter who is queer, who is championing this waiter and making sure the workplace culture feels safe?  Championing the waiter particularly in conversations when they are not present?   

Graham – General Manager, Soho House West Hollywood

Why do you think allies are important? How do you define what an LGBTQIA2S+ ally is?

Allyship can often be minimized to refer to someone who supports the LGBTQIA population, but it is so much more and so important. Allies provide validation and support and in the continuing conversation of equity, they help raise the voices of our LGBTQIA community. Being a minority or in a fringe demographic is hard. Allies, in all forms, provide a hand and inclusion towards the greater community, reducing feelings of isolation and despair, and often resulting in greater collaborations through a shared understanding of the inequalities we face. 

What’s an example you’ve experienced or had with allyship at Soho House? How can allies foster an inclusive workplace at Soho House?

I have been with Soho House for almost three years and proudly share my experience working here as an out gay man. For the first time in my career, even in companies where there was no overt discrimination, I feel the entirety of who I am is applauded and encouraged. This is a company where we proudly say that all of our differences and beauty and traits make us stronger as a whole and that no one part is left out or needs to be ignored in order to succeed. Having out gay leaders send a very clear message that all are welcome, and that success is based on performance and skill. I take great pride in being included amongst the leadership at Soho House. 

Tatiana - Area Head of Membership & Communications, Soho House Miami 

 Why do you think allies are important?

Allies are crucial because they contribute to the strength of a collective effort. They stand alongside marginalized groups, advocating for equal rights and fair treatment. Allies amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard, fostering a more empathetic and understanding society.

Allies are especially important in the workplace to help bridge a gap of communication in many cases between an LGBTQIA2S+ individual and their superiors or co-workers.  People in LGBTQIA2S+ community face discrimination on a daily basis and Allies can help support, defend and protect them.

Allies are also an essential part of the fabric of the LGBTQIA2S+ community to help educate and inform individuals in their social circles who may not have had any exposure to the gay community. Allies have created connections in many spaces that may not have been accessible to LGBTQIA2S+ community. 

How do you define what an LGBTQIA2S+ ally is? 

An LGBTQIA2S+ ally is someone who, regardless of their own sexual orientation or gender identity, wholeheartedly supports and advocates for the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. They actively seek to dismantle prejudice, work towards equality, and ensure that LGBTQIA2S+ voices are elevated and heard. 

An LGBTQIA2S+ ally is someone who believes in our community and actively participates in helping spread our message of unity, equality and acceptance. Key characteristics of an ally is someone who possesses knowledge, understanding and empathy.  

What’s an example you’ve experienced or had with allyship at Soho House?

Fortunately, I have a particularly positive experience with Soho House allyship. Soho House has always approached me to ensure our participation in LGBTQIA2S+ activities feels real and authentic.  Soho House as not only supported and planned events around our community they have supported it financially, which is so important to a community. 

How can allies foster an inclusive workplace at Soho House?

Allies play a pivotal role in creating an inclusive workplace by actively supporting and championing diversity. They can educate themselves about various identities, engage in open dialogue, and challenge discriminatory behavior. Allies contribute to a safe space where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.