Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors’ Post

🌍 Breaking Barriers in the Boardroom #Pride2024🌍 I am proud to share an insightful article from Agenda, a news service from the Financial Times for the U.S. corporate boardroom space, on the increasing but still challenging journey of LGBTQ+ representation in corporate boardrooms. This piece, penned by Lindsay Frost and quoting Megan Kashner and Jack (Rusty) O'Kelley, delves into the progress and persistent obstacles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals striving for board positions. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e4B72gNN 🔑 Key Takeaways: - LGBTQ+ representation on S&P 500 boards has grown significantly, from just four directors in 2018 to 43 today. 📊 - Despite this progress, LGBTQ+ individuals still represent about 0.8% of Fortune 500 board members, a stark contrast to the 7.6% of the U.S. population. 📉 - Barriers include the backlash against DEI programs, networking gaps, fears of being openly out to impede further progress, and some level of unexpressed prejudice (e.g., "LGBTQ+ people broke societal norms, can they be trusted?"). 🚫 Fabrice C Houdart, the founder and executive director of the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors emphasized the unique perspectives LGBTQ+ directors bring—perspectives shaped by resilience and a deep understanding of complex social dynamics. These qualities are invaluable for navigating today’s business landscape: "They experience being ostracized from their own family, strained relationships and discrimination in education and employment. All of those come together to give them a different outlook on life." The benefits of having a variety of voices and experiences in the boardroom cannot be overstated. Thank you, #AgendaWeek, for highlighting this critical issue. Let’s continue to drive forward and ensure that LGBTQ+ voices are heard and integral to decision-making at the highest levels. #LGBTQ #Diversity #Inclusion #CorporateGovernance #Leadership #LGBTQDirectors #BoardDiversity 🌈💼✨

LGBTQ+ Board Representation Grows, Albeit Slowly

LGBTQ+ Board Representation Grows, Albeit Slowly

agendaweek.com

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