Abstract
This paper fills a critical gap in Organizational Studies by centering lesbian and bisexual women, a population almost invisible in scholarly and corporate diversity debates. By analyzing the challenges faced by these women in the workplace, particularly in relation to homophobia and their inclusion strategies. Through the execution and analysis of 13 interviews with lesbian and bisexual women, 4 interviews with managers, and a focus group with 12 non- heterosexual women, it was possible to understand the strategies used by these women to deal with homophobia in the workplace. The research explores the concept of “lesbophobia” as a distinct form of discrimination, highlighting the role of gender and sexual orientation in shaping professional trajectories. The findings show how organizational environments often overlook the experiences of these women, contributing to their invisibility. Furthermore, the study addresses the intersections between gender, sexuality, and other structures of exclusion, emphasizing the need for companies to develop more inclusive practices. By applying an intersectional lens, the article reveals the compounded effects of discrimination, which intensify the invisibility of lesbian women, particularly when considering other identity markers. In conclusion, addressing lesbophobia requires systemic changes, grounded in the recognition of these intersectional dynamics that perpetuate exclusion and invisibility.
Presenters
Gustavo Hart Da RosaStudent, PhD, Unisinos, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil Patrícia Martins Fagundes Cabral
Dean, School of Management and Business, Unisinos, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Inclusion in the workplace. Lesbian and bisexual women. Lesbophobia. Management
