LGBTQ+
Metro/OCC Pride Employee Resource Group
As part of Metro, OCC provides paid time and space for employees with shared life experiences to socialize, network and support one another around topics of common interest through the LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group.
The group is entirely employee-run, defining its own goals and decisions on time together is spent. Activities range from organizing social events to offering guidance to senior leadership on key workplace issues. Joining this group helps both expand employee's networks and help staff members become aware of new leadership opportunities.
Partner resources and information
Gender Inclusion
We are dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all attendees. As part of our commitment to gender inclusion, we wholeheartedly adhere to Metro's Gender Inclusion Policy. We recognize and respect the importance of honoring individuals' names and pronouns, ensuring that everyone feels seen and valued.
Furthermore, we have taken proactive steps to promote inclusivity by implementing inclusive restroom signage on all of our gendered restrooms. These efforts aim to provide a safe and comfortable experience for all visitors, irrespective of their gender identity. At the Oregon Convention Center, we strive to foster an environment where diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels included. By offering inclusive restroom facilities that welcome everyone, we demonstrate our unwavering support and respect for the diverse identities and experiences of all the individuals we host and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does the convention center have gender inclusive signage on all of its restrooms?
A: We understand the importance of creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all attendees, regardless of their gender identity or expression. By implementing gender inclusive signage, we aim to foster a space that is accessible and accommodating to everyone.
Q: What does gender inclusive signage mean?
A: In our case, gender inclusive signage means that in addition to the traditional binary signs; "Men" and "Women," we have added additional signs that recognize and respect the diverse spectrum of gender identities and expressions.
Q: Why is gender inclusivity important in restroom facilities?
A: Restrooms are essential facilities, and everyone should be able to access them comfortably and without fear of discrimination. Gender inclusive restrooms help to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their gender identity, feel safe, respected, and supported when using the facilities.
Q: Does gender inclusive signage mean that the restrooms are only for transgender individuals?
A: No, gender inclusive signage does not limit restroom use to transgender individuals alone. It is intended to be inclusive of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
Q: Will there still be traditional men's and women's restrooms available?
A: In addition to the gendered restrooms with the inclusive signage, single-occupant restrooms are available for those who prefer or feel more comfortable using them. These restrooms are located near the Oregon Ballroom or near the F-Series Meetings Rooms. The goal is to provide options that accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of all attendees.
Q: How does gender inclusive signage benefit parents accompanying children and/or people with caregivers or personal attendants?
A: Gender inclusive signage helps to address situations where a parent or caregiver may need to accompany a child or adult of a different gender into a restroom and eliminates the need to make potentially uncomfortable decisions about which restroom to use. This allows them to enter restrooms together without worrying about social norms or potential judgment, fostering a more inclusive environment for families of all configurations.
Q: Can parents accompanying children and/or people with caregivers or personal attendants still use gender-specific restrooms?
A: Yes, parents accompanying children and/or people with caregivers or personal attendants can still choose to use single-occupant restrooms if they prefer to do so. The availability of gender inclusive restrooms in addition to single-occupant restrooms offers greater flexibility and choice, ensuring that they can select the option that best suits their needs and the comfort level.
Q: What is the convention center's stance on privacy and inappropriate behavior in restroom facilities?
A:We strive to create a respectful and safe environment for all individuals at the convention center. Regardless of gender, it is important to emphasize that we do not condone any form of invasion of privacy, including "peeking" or any other inappropriate behavior. We kindly request that all attendees respect each other's privacy and personal boundaries while using the restroom facilities. Any instances of inappropriate behavior should be reported to our staff or Public Safety team immediately, as we are committed to maintaining a secure and welcoming space for everyone.
Q: How can I provide feedback or ask questions about the gender inclusive signage?
A: We value your feedback and encourage you to reach out to our Guest Experience team or convention center management with any questions, concerns, or suggestions regarding the gender inclusive signage. We are committed to continually improving our facilities and ensuring the best experience for all attendees.
We strive to cultivate an environment where everyone feels welcome and comfortable.
Combating Human Trafficking
Globally, the travel and tourism industry is unknowingly a key conduit for human trafficking, which has been dubbed "modern day slavery" and is defined by the U.S. State Department as the recruitment, transportation, or harboring of people by means of deception or coercion. Victims, often mentally and physically abused, are forced into prostitution and unfair working conditions.
The Oregon Convention Center is committed to combating human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of children. OCC believes that the protection of children from sexual exploitation is a moral imperative and socially responsible business practices must reflect this principle. OCC stands firm in our resolve to create awareness of these crimes by utilizing our professional resources. We ask our business partners, employees clients and attendees to do the same.
All employees are encouraged to learn the signs of what to look out for with regard to human trafficking and to be vigilant and alert while at work. Employees are also encouraged to learn what to do in the case of suspected trafficking and are asked to report through the proper channels.
OCC expects all suppliers to uphold the stand of zero tolerance of human trafficking in all of their dealings with OCC, report suspicious activity while in the building and know the warning signs of people who may be in the venue that are enslaved by a human trafficking ring.
OCC Employees are expected to complete training in human trafficking awareness and work with Leadership to report any suspicious activities or persons related to human trafficking immediately.
All visitors in the Oregon Convention Center will be treated with respect and dignity, and given the resources needed for them to identify, report and survive the occasions of human trafficking.