[EN] A close colleague confided in me about his/her sexual orientation. Some of the casual discussion in our immediate work environment is probably difficult for him/her to deal with. How can I make the personnel who work with us more sensitive without.

[EN]

Q: A close colleague confided in me about his/her sexual orientation.  Some of the casual discussion in our immediate work environment is probably difficult for him/her to deal with.  How can I make the personnel who work with us more sensitive without betraying his/her confidence? 

A: We should generally be aware that we are surrounded by difference, and that our own opinions and judgment may not be shared by those around us.  When casual discussion at work touches on subjects of a sensitive nature, we should be aware that we risk upsetting others.
You should consider making these points to the personnel who work with you, but without betraying the confidence of your colleague. If this is not possible, you may remind your colleague that he/she may contact the Human Resources Department or the CERN Diversity Programme Leader.