Lesbian presentations and representations of leadership, and the implications for HRD

Abstract

Purpose – This paper seeks to identify, examine, and discuss the unique challenges for lesbians who serve in leadership positions in corporate America.Design/methodology/approach – Drawing upon a multi‐disciplinary framework of management, diversity, feminist, and leadership literature, the paper critically examines the myriad of pressures exerted upon all women in leadership positions, and then identifies the pressures that are specific and unique for lesbians.Findings – There are pressures that are unique for lesbian leaders. These pressures include negotiating the heterosexism of the organization; invisibility versus visibility, and gender expression and gender role expectations.Originality/value – The paper provides implications for human resource development to assume a stronger and more active role in uncovering tacit issues embedded in leadership so that organizational workplaces become locations of greater equity, access, and fairness for all who aspire to leadership positions.