No matter the definition, inclusivity is an important part of unlocking an organization's full potential and LGBTQIA2S+ inclusion is an essential aspect of that. The constantly evolving acronym LGBTQIA2S+ (also referred to as LGBTQ+ or LGBTQIA+) stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit, and the countless ways in which people identify. LGBTQIA2S+ communities in the United States have experienced discrimination and exclusion in the workforce for years. In 2021, 46% of LGBTQ workers reported receiving unfair treatment at some point in their careers because of their sexual orientation or gender identity — including being passed over for a job, harassed at work, denied a promotion or raise, excluded from company events, denied additional hours, or fired…

But data has shown companies that commit to diversity and inclusion efforts see a positive impact in all areas of the business including recruitment, retention, and revenue (SHRM). An inclusive workplace brings in fresh perspectives and helps employees perform at their best. 

Leaders must work to promote greater inclusivity all year round but a great opportunity to show equality and care is by honoring Pride Month.. the right way!

Step 2:

Be Pride and Proud and Include Everyone

Pride Month is a time dedicated to celebrating the activism and achievements of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. 

In the United States, Pride Month takes place in June to honor the Stonewall Uprising that took place in June 1969 in New York City. The uprising led to a series of demonstrations by members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community due to police harassment and raids at the Stonewall Inn. 

Pride Month is an opportunity for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and allies to unite and promote equality, inclusion, and acceptance of all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Most Pride events take place each year in June, although some cities hold their celebrations at other times of the year. Pride now takes place across the world and features events like marches, parades, educational sessions, and more! 

The rainbow flag, which was created by Gilbert Baker in 1978, is now a symbol for the LQBTQIA2S+ community and can be seen throughout different parts of Pride Month events. In 2018, Daniel Quasar designed a new version of the flag to include Brown, Black, and Trans colors showing the support of the people of color and trans in the community. 

Pride Month is about representation of all. As your company looks to celebrate and honor Pride Month this year, it is important to remind ourselves that not all LGBTQIA2S+ share the same views or priorities. Individuals may belong to a certain community but they may not live the exact same life or share all the same views as the next. To have an inclusive workplace, means to understand the nuances and celebrate those differences with as many options and ways as possible.

Next, we share some ways to appreciate all identities within your workforce this Pride Month.

Step 3: 

Get Creative - How Can You Celebrate Pride Month This June

1. Show Your Support & Wear Pride colors 

Invite your workforce to wear Pride colors for the month of June. If you are in a remote setting, change your Zoom background to include Pride colors or a graphic like this: 

Encourage team members to support LGBTQIA2S+ vendors, businesses, and local artists. You can find different LGBTQIA2S+ businesses even online here! 

2. Run a Social Media Campaign 

Share quotes from voices within the LGBTQIA2S+ community (including some not well-known) on your company's social media. Or invite your workforce to participate in a spotlight either featuring individuals who identify in the LGBTQIA2S+ community or who are allies.