Why Acknowledging Pride Month Is Important
As another Pride Month comes to an end, we are reminded once again of the importance of bringing acceptance into our lives and treating everyone equally. As an ally of the LGBTQ+ community, eLearning Industry would like to touch on the crucial topic of embracing diversity and inclusion in the workplace and celebrating Pride Month to actively express your unbiased support to all your employees. So, let us wave our rainbow flags and dive right in!
Why Do We Need To Celebrate Pride Month?
We often seem to forget the deeper meaning of Pride Month. Although it is a celebration now, that's not how it started. Pride has its roots in the New York Stonewall Uprising of 1969. Despite the many steps toward equality that have been achieved, we must remember that there is still a long way to go. In fact, a recent survey revealed that almost 25% of LGBTQ+ employees withhold information about their identity for fear that they will be treated differently by their colleagues and supervisors. Participating in Pride celebrations as an individual and an organization reassures your employees that you acknowledge their struggles and are by their side.
Read on to discover how to celebrate diversity and inclusion in the workplace and offer meaningful support to the LGBTQ+ community.
4 Ways To Celebrate Pride In The Workplace
Pride Month is a great opportunity to liven up the office with rainbow flags in a show of your support. However, there's much more to it than colorful decorations. Here are some meaningful steps you can take to celebrate Pride.
1. Focus On Training And Education
There's a lot of history regarding Pride Month and the LGBTQ+ rights movement that you might not be aware of, especially if this is the first time you're participating. Therefore, training courses on DEI are always a great place to start. Training could include various topics, such as discussing privilege, acknowledging pronouns, accepting different gender identities, developing emotional intelligence, and many more. Educating yourself and your workforce will help you create an understanding work environment allowing everyone to express themselves freely.
2. Scrape Discrimination From Company Policies
Often, discrimination or bias is ingrained into company policies without leaders even realizing it. But all it takes to solve this problem is re-evaluating existing company policies and updating them to fit today's society. If possible, you can ask LGBTQ+ employees if there is any policy they have struggled with or that they feel has marginalized them. By working together, you can identify areas for improvement, promote awareness, and increase inclusivity in the workspace. This way, any and all employees will feel supported and understood by their employer and colleagues.
3. March At The Pride Parade
We all know that the culmination of Pride Month celebrations is the Pride Parade. As many teams are working remotely these days, you can honor the occasion by sharing pictures and videos from everyone's local Pride Parades or even holding a virtual one. Everyone can bring their rainbow flags and don colorful clothing, and maybe you can also share local LGBTQ+ organizations that are doing important work.
4. Donate To An LGBTQ+ Cause
Speaking of LGBTQ+ organizations, there is no better way to support and further the cause of equality and inclusion than by donating to one. Every year, thousands of LGBTQ+ youth face serious problems such as discrimination, abuse, homelessness, and suicidal thoughts. Thankfully, numerous charities are helping younger members of the community, offering them access to shelter, supporting their physical and mental health, and fighting against inequalities. Do your research to find a few local organizations and make a donation to ensure that every day we make steps towards a more accepting society.
Creating A Safe Space
As the leader of an organization, you are in charge of a large number of people that are unique in their own special ways. Treating everyone fairly and supporting them equally in furthering their personal and professional development will help keep your organization thriving. Celebrating Pride Month is essential for LGBTQ+ employees, helping them feel motivated and seen for who they truly are. Follow the tips we shared, and you will be that much closer to transforming your organization into a safe space for everyone.
