News - 08.08.2025

Queer at Work

About 35 years ago, a new manager was hired at a large company in Reykjavík, which caused quite a stir. The manager was not only a woman, but also a lesbian. The former was considered radical enough by many, and the latter only made matters worse. Some people even threatened to resign and look for work elsewhere. The company’s CEO responded by saying that those who were threatening to quit could simply go their own way — he had hired a capable person for the job and intended to stand by that decision.

I heard this story recently, and it has stayed with me ever since — not because it is unique, but precisely because it was hardly an isolated case. Both women and queer people of all kinds have had to fight for their right to exist in the labour market. Progressive managers can make all the difference, and in this story, the CEO’s stance was crucial: he drew a line in the sand, and according to employees, that line is still there.

What is most important to keep in mind is that each and every one of us has influence. Discrimination against individuals at work most often thrives when the majority stays silent. The harm is greatest when everyone participates, but also when no one steps up to defend the person who is being discriminated against. Hurtful remarks, for example, can have far less impact on someone who is supported in their immediate environment and does not have to fight the battle alone.

Reykjavík Pride is an ideal opportunity to take responsibility and seek knowledge and information to combat discrimination in the labour market. Part of that is looking back and seeing how much has changed since it was considered newsworthy that a lesbian got a job. At the same time, it is just as important to face up to the discrimination that exists today — and to the role we can all play in either maintaining it or breaking it down.

We spend a large part of our lives at work, and there are countless studies showing how important it is for our mental and physical health to feel good in the workplace. All working people can contribute to building good and inclusive workplaces where we feel comfortable — not despite our differences, but precisely because of them.

Happy Pride!
Halla Gunnarsdóttir, Leader of VR

The article was first published on visir.is on 8 August 2025