Multnomah County employees demand action against pervasive transphobia in workplace culture

A powerful call for change echoed through the Multnomah County meeting on November 21, 2024, as Julia Brown, a mental health consultant and co-chair of the PRISM employee resource group, highlighted the urgent need to address pervasive transphobia within the county workforce. Brown, who identifies as a white queer gender-fluid femme, shared her own positive experiences of coming out at work but emphasized that many of her colleagues face chronic discrimination, including misgendering and deadnaming.

Brown's testimony revealed a troubling pattern of harassment that has led to severe mental health impacts for affected employees, some of whom have taken medical leave or faced termination. She pointed out that attempts to report these violations have often resulted in retaliation rather than accountability, leaving many feeling unsafe and unsupported in their workplace.

Despite the efforts of some county leaders and the Office of Diversity and Equity, Brown expressed frustration over the lack of effective action against transphobia, stating, "We are done with their performative nature." She called for a resolution that would involve key decision-makers in creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all employees.

The meeting underscored the critical intersection of trans rights with broader issues of racism and sexism, as Brown noted the disproportionate violence faced by trans people of color. As the county grapples with anti-trans legislation and internal discrimination, the urgency for meaningful change has never been clearer. Brown concluded with a demand for genuine engagement from leadership, stating that the PRISM and QTPOC employee resource groups are ready to advocate for their rights but need real support to do so effectively.