Inclusivity in the Workplace

The History of Pride Month

June marks the beginning of Pride Month, which is dedicated to showing support for the LGBTQIA+ community. The month holds historical significance as it marks the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in 1969, a pivotal moment in the battle against homophobia and campaign for equal rights. During this time, same sex relationships were illegal, with the result of this often being imprisonment. Protests began after the police raided the LGBTQIA+ bar in New York, spearheaded by the Gay Liberation Front. The following year, the inaugural Pride March took place in Greenwich Village, with up to 13,000 people standing up for LGBTQIA+ rights. Over the years, Pride Month has evolved into a global celebration of visibility, acceptance and continuing the fight against discrimination. It serves as a reminder of the progress made, whilst acknowledging the work that still needs to be done to achieve full equality and inclusivity for LGBTQIA+ individuals across the globe.

Inclusivity In the Workplace

Creating an inclusive working environment that promotes equality is incredibly important for all organisations. Regardless of identity, background, ideologies or sexual orientation, workplaces should strive to accommodate and foster equality. This can be achieved through the fair treatment of all employees and the provision of equal opportunities. By cultivating a welcoming atmosphere, employees will feel respected and comfortable therefore leading to a content and productive working environment. Here are some ways in which workplaces can be more inclusive to their LGBTQIA+ employees.

Educate

One of the main ways to support is to educate employees on the LGBTQIA+ community’s history. By understanding the historical struggles and milestones it allows employees to gain a valuable insight into challenges faced in the community. This can be done by ensuring staff have completed inclusivity training through onboarding processes, providing learning tools and knowledge to ensure the workplace is an inclusive environment. By making this a priority in the training process, organisations can cultivate an inclusive environment where all staff members feel safe and respected.

Support

As a workplace you can show solidarity and support for LGBTQIA+ events and charities which demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion. By donating time or financial contributions to LGBTQIA+ organisations such as advocacy, healthcare and mental-health charities it not only helps those charities to thrive and keep providing help for those who need it, it also creates an environment where employees can feel supported and proud of the company’s commitment to supporting the community. This can also be done by supporting or attending local pride events and actively getting involved to promote Pride month in the workplace.

Celebrate

Workplaces can host pride-related events to demonstrate their support for the community and celebrate their achievements and contributions. This can be as simple as social lunchtime gatherings with dialogue and conversations surrounding the community or larger affairs with guest speakers and workshops. However big or small, Pride is all about celebrating how far the fight has come but also recognising there’s still a long way to go.

Pride Month is a great chance to show support for the LGBTQIA+ community, however it’s important to know that this support shouldn’t diminish after the month ends. Workplaces should continue to support and create a safe and equal environment for all.