Career Discrimination of LGBTQ+ Individuals Then and Now

​​A look at the state of queer discrimination in Russia and the United States across 50 years

​​Overview

​​Join us for a groundbreaking cross-cultural dialogue exploring career development strategies for LGBTQ+ professionals facing workplace discrimination.  This conversation brings together career consultants, business professionals, and advocates to examine parallel challenges and share proven strategies across different cultural contexts.

​​Presented by ComingOut

​​Established in 2008, ComingOut is a leading LGBTQ+ initiative in Russia.  We work tirelessly to secure equal rights for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.  Our mission is to create a safe and comfortable living environment for LGBTQ+ people in Russia by changing public opinion and empowering them to thrive.  This workshop represents our commitment to sharing knowledge and supporting queer communities, globally. 

​​Facilitator:  Katerina Luchinina, a business and career counselor and HR executive with 20 years of experience implementing successful HR strategies, talent development programs, and DEIB initiatives.

​​The Context

​​While employment discrimination laws differ across nations, the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ professionals often share striking similarities.  Currently in Russia, although direct employment discrimination by employers may be prohibited, queer individuals face significant barriers when in customer-facing roles. 

​​This discussion creates space to:

• ​​Examine the parallel experiences between those in Russia today and what was once experienced within the United States during the 1970s.

• ​​Share strategies that have proven effective across different eras and cultural contexts to support both Russians and Americans in these difficult challenges

• ​​Build international networks of support and develop culturally-informed approaches

​​Topics

​​·       Understanding the Landscape

​​·       Historical Perspectives & Modern Applications

​​·       Practical Career Strategies

​​·       Cross-Cultural Exchange

​​Discussion Points

• ​​A deeper understanding of the similarities of LGBTQ+ communities in Russia and the United States

• ​​Ways of navigating this landscape

• ​​Historical context for current struggles and proven resilience strategies

• ​​International connections and referral networks

• ​​Resources for continued learning and advocacy

​​Why This Matters

​​Work is about securing the basic means to feed themselves, pay rent, and survive.  When discrimination forces people out of certain opportunities, whether through employer hiring practices or customer discrimination, it directly threatens an individual’s ability to meet their most basic of needs.