GAF’s Post

What causes LGBTQ+ people to be underrepresented in Stem, and how can we improve inclusion and retention? Join our webinar on 2 July to discuss some of the work being done towards LGBTQ+ inclusion, with Ioana Latu and Bryce Hughes. Book your place: https://rsc.li/4bhJweq

Do you want to support LGBTQ+ identifying students at Mendoza? Support Mendoza LGBTQ+ & Allies club! Here are 3 simple ways. Explore our ND Day page to learn more about our mission, the club's goals for next year, and success stories. https://lnkd.in/evMjGhp

Doing it right!

I love that we support and celebrate inclusiveness and diversity, but honestly, I have to speak from my perspective as a CEO. I often wonder if it's me, the person, or my mindset as a Leader and a CEO. I believe the only time we will be inclusive is when no one has to wave a flag or wear a badge or a wristband. Same for disabilities, ethnicity, or colour. People talk crap even when wanting not to... 'Oh, I don't see colour...' said a mate of mine recently. 'Well, get an eye test, pal; he is as black as the Ace of Spades, ' I replied. Oh no, that's not what I meant said he. Yes, it wasn't, but why do you even have to state that? Why does it need to be said? Just be his mate. I guess what I am trying, and probably failing and inviting a load of snowflakes to pile in, is people are people. When we get to a stage where none of this is a subject matter, that is what I call inclusive. As for diversity, well, God decided that already. What's it got to do with us? There are some things I am well known for by my friends and family. One is that I have absolutely no 'Gay-Dar'. One of my good pals from past work life is now a woman, and considering our personal backgrounds, I find it extremely difficult to get my head around but equally not at all difficult to accept. It's her life; she can do what she likes that makes her happy. I couldn't give a monkey's what she chooses to do; she's still the same person as when I first knew her, apart from the blindingly obvious and having a far less deep voice. I think the longer this need to recognise everyone with their own special symbols and the like, actually the further away we get from where people aspire to be. If someone is Gay, Bi-, Straight whatever, It doesn't occur to me at all, and I am equally not the slightest bit bothered when I become aware of it. What I care about is simple. In work, are you a good colleague, a grafter who is aware that the customer pays us all and values them? In my social life, are you good company, do we share values and interests, or are you really annoying or boring? Those things are the only things that matter, or should matter. When we can take pride in not needing symbols or events like pride flag and month then and only then in my humble opinion do I reckon we have cracked it. Until then though, Happy Pride Month to everyone who feels represented and that it gives them belief they can live happily and openly. I hope I am wrong and that actually it is empowering and breaking down barriers without what I like to call 'Idiots' who haven't got the brains they were born with being like scared rabbits towards anyone who is different from them. Until then, please call out all 'Idiots' instead of looking at your feet or looking away. Failing to discourage, by its very definition, lacks courage, and that's the only difference; people of Pride Month have had to show courage; the least you can do is make that inclusive by showing your own where they do get abused by the Idiots.

Be an ally. Be Kind. We ALL have one thing in common, we are all human beings first. Yet, so many different people continue to experience discrimination for a multitude of reasons. Financial wellness in the LBGTQ+ community face unique challenges and setbacks-- we all deserve to have access to financial products and services in an equitable environment. The 2024 LGBTQ+ Financial Wellness Report's key findings are a rude awakening that there is much work to be done for better financial inclusion. *Roughly half (48.15) of LGBTQ+ adults say they are financially unwell, compared to one-quarter (25.7%) of the general public. Both BIPOC and younger (age 18-24) LGBTQ+ adults are even more likely to say they are financially unwell. *Three in ten (30.8%) LGBTQ+ adults say they have experienced discrimination while accessing financial services *Roughly half (48.15) of LGBTQ+ adults say they are financially unwell, compared to one-quarter (25.7%) of the general public. *Nearly 60% (59.7%) of LGTBQ+ adults have annual household incomes below $75,000. "The data underscore the need for our economic empowerment programs, especially for younger BIPOC LGBTQ+ folks. I hope the data are a call to action for organizations serving our community. Given what we know about who is struggling the most, these organizations have an opportunity to center BIPOC young adults by being culturally responsive, trauma informed, and offering voice and choice to young people.” Maruka Rivers, Director of Economic Empowerment Programs at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation How is your credit union being an ally? If not, reach out and get involved.

🎉 Happy #DisabilityPrideMonth! We're honouring some of the disabled LGBTQ+ people who paved the way for a more inclusive world. Want to be a better ally to disabled LGBTQ+ people? Our blog has you covered ▶️ https://bit.ly/37j89c2

For educators looking to better support their LGBTQ+ students, here are a few ways you can create more inclusive learning spaces that foster allyship and a sense of belonging: http://spr.ly/6008e4i2Y

It's #Pride Month! Take action for older #LGBTQ+ adults. The problem: "We know that local aging services and supports are critical for the LGBTQ+ community to succeed as they age. However, fear due to a lifetime of discrimination and current lived experiences prevents many LGBTQ+ elders from accessing the care and support they need to thrive." Learn more about what you can do to help. #MondayMotivation https://ed.gr/ehb1o

LGBT Tech’s new report, The LGBTQ+ Digital Divide, breaks down the critical disparities in digital access that unduly impact LGBTQ+ individuals and outlines the urgent actions needed to ensure digital equity for all.

As a very proud mother of a gay daughter, I’m celebrating Pride 2024 - it’s an opportunity to come together in love and friendship, as well as a moment to reflect on past struggles and ongoing efforts required to achieve true equality. Fostering an LGBTQ+ inclusive and supportive workplace is so important. And the advantages go beyond ensuring that everyone of all sexualities and gender identities feel safe, supported, valued and included – it enhances business productivity and profitability. “The case for establishing a truly diverse workforce, at all organizational levels, grows more compelling each year….The financial impact—as proven by multiple studies—makes this a no-brainer.” Havard Business Review Nov-Dec 2020