Rainbow Washing
Thailand's big corporations: we support your gay rights but we won't call you back if you applied to us. Write a stark comparison between corporate hopping on the hype train and how they treating the employees or potential employee
The image you sent shows a Facebook post where people are discussing discrimination against transgender people in Thailand based on comments about not being called back for job interviews. This highlights a major issue of performative allyship by corporations in Thailand.
Performative Allyship vs. Substantive Action
- Performative allyship is when companies express public support for a social cause, such as LGBTQ+ rights, but don't follow through with actions to create a truly inclusive workplace.
- Substantive action involves implementing policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion within the company. This could include things like:
- Unbiased hiring practices that ensure LGBTQ+ candidates are evaluated fairly.
- Anti-discrimination policies that protect LGBTQ+ employees from harassment and discrimination.
- Employee training on LGBTQ+ inclusion.
- Company benefits that extend to same-sex partners and their families.
Here's a stark comparison between corporate hopping on the LGBTQ+ rights bandwagon and how they treat employees or potential employees:
| Aspect | Performative Allyship | Substantive Action |
|---|---|---|
| Public image | Rainbow logos, Pride Month social media posts | Authentic messaging about LGBTQ+ inclusion efforts |
| Hiring practices | Unconscious bias in job descriptions and interviews | Diverse interview panels, LGBTQ+ employee resource groups |
| Workplace culture | Tolerates or ignores anti-LGBTQ+ behavior | Actively promotes a culture of respect and inclusion for all |
Rainbow Washing vs. Real Progress
Critics call this kind of performative activism "rainbow washing," a term used to describe companies that slap a rainbow logo on their products during Pride Month but do nothing to combat discrimination against LGBTQ+ people.
The Call for Change
The Facebook post you sent is a powerful example of how LGBTQ+ people in Thailand are calling out corporations for their hypocrisy. For progress to happen, here's what can be done:
- LGBTQ+ employees and allies can speak up about their experiences of discrimination.
- Consumers can hold companies accountable by supporting businesses that are demonstrably LGBTQ+ inclusive.
- Lawmakers can enact legislation that protects LGBTQ+ people from discrimination.
By working together, we can move beyond performative allyship and create a more inclusive future for everyone.
