The same is not true with those who have gender orientation or gender identity issues. The workplace is still confused and conflicted over what it appropriate, how to handle it and hot to deal with the real employee relations issues caused by the topic.
Tattooed professionals often manage their own business and “tattooed” selves separately in professional settings, especially in customer-facing jobs and upon first impressions. Some people choose to always cover their tattoos while others show their tattoos after they have established themselves. The same is often true of piercings.
The right to self-expression is more problematic with gender orientation and gender identity issues. For many employees, the conversation and, ultimately, the decision, to change the visible parts of an individuals’ gender is compounded by religious beliefs, personal experiences and the media.
By GREG CHARTIER