Does Pride Month Matter in the Workplace?

Birth of the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement

Pride month commemorates the Stonewall riots, widely considered the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. They marked a turning point when LGBTQ+ individuals fought back against systemic discrimination and police harassment, sparking a wave of activism and organizing for LGBTQ+ rights.

Corporate support is essential for queer folx to feel included in the corporate culture and is vital in advancing LGBTQ+ rights in our workplaces and society.

Visibility and Empowerment

The events at Stonewall brought LGBTQ+ issues into the public eye and empowered individuals to come out and demand equal rights and dignity. It gave LGBTQ+ people a sense of visibility and agency, encouraging them to organize, protest, and advocate for change.

But despite progress, some LGBTQ+ employees still fear being ‘out’ at work with reports of discrimination and bullying being all too frequent. Harassment and bullying often lead to health-related problems and absenteeism, yet many LGBTQ+ employees remain silent due to fears of further retaliation.  This highlights the need for visible corporate allyship and workplace DEI policies that can lead to higher employee engagement and retention.

Symbol of Resistance

Stonewall has become a symbol of resistance and resilience for the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. The legacy of Stonewall continues to inspire LGBTQ+ activists and allies to stand up against discrimination and injustice.

Businesses have a responsibility to create safe spaces for all employees including LGBTQ+ and other marginalized groups. By showing support for Pride Month in the workplace, businesses are reinforcing acceptance and support for the fight against hostility and discrimination.

What can be done?

Companies can promote social acceptance by creating educational opportunities, updating company materials and activities to be more inclusive, and encouraging participation in Pride celebrations. What about being progressive and declaring Monday after your local Pride a floating holiday?

A corporate LGBTQ+ Allyship Pledge can help create a sense of belonging and demonstrate your commitment to supporting the community through visible actions like supporting local LGBTQ+ non-profit organizations, starting company networking groups, and donations to the many organizations fighting for inclusivity.

And always remember, your LGBTQ+ employees are queer all year long, not just for a weekend in June.