Pride Month doesn't look the same everywhere. And that’s exactly the point. The experiences of LGBTQ+ communities vary across countries, cultures and communities. So do the ways people show their support.
This year, Gen employees around the world took part in Pride Month activities—from creating resources for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs online to developing messages of encouragement and belonging for queer communities in India. Different activities. Shared goal: creating an environment where people feel respected, supported and able to be fully themselves.
Showing up in local communities
In Tempe, we hosted a live event with guests from The SEEN, a local nonprofit that empowers and advocates for the BIPOC LGBTQ+ community, with people sharing personal stories and celebrating with a game of Jeopardy.
In Pune, team members created affirmative posters featuring messages of support, encouragement and inclusion with LGBTQ+ individuals.
"Pride isn't just a month; it's a mindset. Our Pune team picked up brushes and painted what inclusion looks like. Every poster, a promise. Every color, a commitment. ” Pallavi Sharma Patil, Pune
Team members from all around the world volunteered virtually to develop financial aid resources for LGBTQ+ youth entrepreneurs. The goal: increase visibility for queer-owned businesses and connect aspiring entrepreneurs with tools for growth.
While each initiative reflected different needs and perspectives, they shared a common belief: everyone deserves the opportunity to live, contribute and participate in their communities authentically.
Building belonging all year long
The work doesn't stop when Pride Month ends.
Throughout the year, Communities@Gen, our employee resource groups, help employees connect around shared experiences, build networks and foster a culture of belonging. PROUD, Gen's LGBTQ+ employee community, plays an important role in that effort - creating opportunities and allies to learn from one another, build alongside each other and share ideas around inclusion across the company.
Because when people can show up as they are, stronger communities follow.
To learn more, visit our Inclusion and Belonging website.
