Creating a safe fieldwork environment for LGBTQ+ researchers: how we can EACH do our part

LGBTQ+ researchers face unique challenges navigating the unusual circumstances of field work. Traditional field safety training workshops are targeted towards heterosexual and cisgendered experiences, and thus are not always transferrable or relevant for LGBTQ+ individuals. The acronym EACH (Explicit, Awareness, Culture, and Housing) describes a field safety framework specific to LGBTQ+ researchers that can be implemented by team leaders to increase inclusivity during field work. Explicit allyship, awareness of LGBTQ+ discrimination, fostering a teamwide culture of acceptance, and allowing flexibility for housing are among the first steps to creating an LGBTQ+ friendly field team.