Kennedy Adams’ Post

As we comes towards the middle of #LGBTQplus Pride Month, it's essential to recognize the profound significance of this celebration not just within the LGBTQ+ community but for society as a whole. Pride Month is a time to honor the struggles, victories, and ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. But it's also a reminder of the crucial role diversity, equity, and inclusion (#DEI) play in advancing democratic ideals. Inclusive societies are built on the foundation of respecting and celebrating differences. By embracing diversity in all its forms, we foster environments where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. This inclusivity is fundamental to the health and progress of democracy. As we commemorate Pride Month, let's recommit ourselves to promoting DEI in our workplaces, communities, and institutions. Let's stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and reaffirm our dedication to creating a world where everyone can live authentically and without fear of discrimination. For those seeking to learn more about LGBTQ+ issues, resources, and how to support the cause, there are numerous avenues available. Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign, GLAAD, and The Trevor Project offer valuable information, support, and advocacy initiatives. Additionally, universities, libraries, and community centers often host events and provide resources to promote understanding and allyship. Let's use this month as an opportunity to educate ourselves, advocate for change, and celebrate the beautiful diversity of the human experience. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable world for all. #PrideMonth #DEI #Equality #HumanRights #LGBTQ+ #Inclusion

🌈 Celebrating Pride Month: Why It Matters to Me 🌈 As Pride Month begins, I find myself reflecting on the significance of this time for both the LGBTQ+ community and for me personally. This month is a celebration of love, acceptance, and the ongoing fight for equality. For me, Pride Month is a reminder of the importance of inclusivity in every aspect of our lives. It’s also important to reflect on how far we have come. I grew up in a small country town in the 80’s and 90’s. Discovering who I was, was not easy and did not come without its challenges. I have been bullied, harassed and even discriminated against. However, none of this has stopped me in continuing to pave the path for others and work towards creating a safe space for everyone to be themselves. I know that acceptance and support can change lives. Friends and family members who are part of the LGBTQ+ community have shown me the strength it takes to live authentically and the beauty that can come from being true to oneself. In my professional journey, I’ve strived to create and support environments where everyone feels safe and valued, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. I believe that diversity is not just a goal, but a strength that drives innovation and fosters a sense of belonging. This Pride Month, I encourage all of us to: 1. Listen and Learn: Open our hearts and minds to the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. Their stories are powerful and deserve to be heard. 2. Support and Advocate: Whether through allyship, volunteering, or advocating for inclusive policies, let’s take tangible steps to make a difference. 3. Celebrate Authenticity: Embrace and celebrate our own identities and those of others. Let’s create spaces where everyone can thrive as their true selves. Together, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate world. Happy Pride Month! 🏳️🌈 #PrideMonth #LGBTQ #Inclusion #Diversity #Equality #Pride2024

🏳️🌈So this just happened 🏳️🌈 🌈 Celebrating Pride Month with Dr. Shaun Dellenty! 🌈 We had the incredible opportunity to host a lunch and learn session with Dr Shaun Dellenty (he/him)FCCT/FRSA/BEd/NPQH/PointsofLight as part of our Pride Month celebrations. His insights and knowledge left a lasting impression on all of us. Here's a brief recap of what we covered: 📚 **The Importance of Education:** Dr. Dellenty emphasized the power of education in fostering understanding and acceptance within our communities. 🏳️🌈 **Pride and the History of Pride and Acceptance:** We delved into the rich history of Pride, understanding its roots and the on-going journey towards acceptance and equality. 📖 **Terms:** We learned the importance of using inclusive language and familiarized ourselves with key terms within the LGBTQ+ community. 🤝 **Allyship:** Dr. Dellenty highlighted how we can all be better allies, supporting and advocating for our LGBTQ+ colleagues and friends. 🔄 **Change Programs:** We discussed the importance of implementing change programs to drive lasting inclusivity within our organization. 📢 **Calling In and Calling Out:** Dr. Dellenty explained the difference between calling in and calling out, and how both approaches are vital in addressing issues constructively. 🏢 **Inclusive Companies:** We explored what it means to be an inclusive company and the benefits it brings to both employees and the organization as a whole. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Listen and Learn:** Continuously educate ourselves and listen to the experiences of others. 2. **Use Inclusive Language:** Be mindful of the language we use and ensure it respects everyone's identity. 3. **Be Active Allies:** Stand up and support our LGBTQ+ colleagues and friends, both in and out of the workplace. A huge thank you to Dr. Shaun Dellenty for an inspiring session, and to everyone who attended and engaged in this important conversation. Let's continue to work together to make our environment more inclusive and welcoming for all. 🌟 #PrideMonth #Inclusion #Diversity #Allyship #Education #LGBTQ+ #InclusiveWorkplace #Bristan #HeritageBathrooms

HAPPY PRIDE MONTH Y'ALL! 🏳️🌈 Not only during pride month, but all year round, it is important to set an example for an inclusive and diverse society. This month, awareness of topics around the LGBTQIA+ community are to be raised especially in order to stand by as #allies. At ENERGYNEST, equal opportunities are particularly important to us, which is why we have set this out in our Diversity & Inclusion Policy: “It is our duty to provide equal opportunities to colleagues, candidates and suppliers in an environment in which each is treated with dignity and respect.” Furthermore, appreciative and respectful interaction within the team is essential for us. 🌈🙌🏽 There is so many more to list here, and so many more not active on LinkedIN... but if you haven't done so yet, start somewhere: we have linked a few voices that raise awareness throughout the year. Check them out below and learn more everyday: Gazelle Vollhase Raul Krauthausen Blair Imani George Evans Madison Butler 🏳️🌈🦄 Also take some time to get some latest research reading, maybe with these examples from Harvard Business Review: Your Rainbow Logo Doesn’t Make You an Ally: https://lnkd.in/dJQszCG Research: How to Be a Better Ally to the LGBTQ+ Community: https://lnkd.in/dgHTu3Jg The Surprising Power of Simply Asking Coworkers How They’re Doing: https://lnkd.in/f-bDC_w Taken from UN Women: "Discrimination is rooted in fear and ignorance. So be an ally for equality and speak out for #LGBTIQ+ rights!" #pride #pridemonth #diversity #inclusion #awareness #team #respect #community #people #LGBTQIA+

🌈 As Pride Month kicks off, you may notice a surge in rainbow-coloured logos and Pride-themed content. But does their support for the queer community go beyond the posts? 🏳️🌈 Rainbow washing, or Pride washing, refers to companies superficially adopting Pride symbols to profit from the Queer community without enacting real inclusive practices. 📈 Pride Month has become an economic tool for businesses, with many leveraging the visibility to boost their brand image and sales. However, true support for LGBTQ+ rights goes beyond marketing—it's about having diverse hiring practices, supportive policies, and an inclusive culture year-round. 💡 Did you know? Inclusive companies are not only ethical but also economically smarter. A diverse workforce can drive innovation, improve employee satisfaction, and lead to better financial performance (McKinsey, 2020). 💬 Know any organizations truly committed to LGBTQ+ inclusion? Tag them in the comments below! Let's celebrate and support businesses that make a real difference. 🌟 * If you're looking for cutting edge, highly engaging, future focused program and product for your DEI or PoSH compliance requirements, drop us a line at hello@trustin.co.in! We'd love to hear from you. #PrideMonth #RainbowWashing #Inclusivity #DiversityAndInclusion #LGBTQSupport #EconomicTool #Pride2024 #QueerRights #BusinessEthics #LoveIsLove

Tips on LGBTQ+ inclusion from Stonewall London Workplace Conference (22 March): *Harness hybrid events and online resources for inclusion on a budget Employers can use virtual events and online resources if they do not have a large budget to allocate towards inclusion, according to Phil Clements, co-chair of Omnicon Media Group’s LGBTQ+ Advisory Group. He said: “Virtual events don’t have the same cost implications as those in person. And there are other benefits, as online discussion means people can contribute no matter where they happen to be. “Recording panels and talks allows people to get involved whenever they have time, which is very useful in a hybrid working environment. “For those in the early stages of coming out, when attending in person might feel like too big of a step, [online meetings] can allow for greater access.” Clements encouraged employers to build a library of online content so that staff can access it from anywhere and at any time. “You don’t need to hold an event each week. There is also lots of readily available content online which you can use and curate. You can create your own guides for people to read. Do your research. Use only reliable sources, like charities and advocacy groups. “You will likely discover details you simply weren’t aware of. As you educate others, you too will grow.” [HR Magazine] #diversity #inclusion #stonewall #lgbtq+

Happy Pride Month! 🌈 Let’s fill our timelines with the beautiful colors of inclusivity. I am continually thankful for the acceptance and openness I have found in the digital industry. The diverse voices and perspectives we have at our table are not just welcomed – they are celebrated. And that’s how it should be in every industry. This has been a tough year for our LGBTQ+ friends, with a 183% rise in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation (with over 500 bills currently being tracked) and a 19% increase in anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes. This Pride month, let's commit to using our voices and platforms not just to celebrate but to advocate for change. *Your voice matters.* And your votes matter. And even if you don’t change someone’s mind, you’ll plant a seed for change. 🌱 Let's support organizations that fight for inclusivity, and let's stand together to promote a world where everyone can be their true, authentic selves without fear. To all my LGBTQ+ peers in the industry and beyond, know that your identity is your strength, and being who you are in the workplace is a sign of your strength. Keep shining, keep thriving, and keep being you. If there is ever a moment where you want solidarity with another LGBTQ+ person, my inbox is open with open arms.🌈🏳️🌈 #pridemonth #lgbtq #inclusion

Ah, Pride month. 🌈 To me, pride month is every month, in fact, it’s every single day. I have so much pride in being a trans man, and it’s taken me a LONG time to get to be the man I am today, with the love I have for myself after so many years of self-hatred. As happy as pride month makes me, I do sometimes feel like all these big companies only choose to recognise people like me in June because they’re following the rest of said big companies. *insert rainbow washing and tick boxing for diversity employment data paragraph here* 🙃 Pride month is all about celebrating our history and how far we as LGBTQ+ people have come since the Stonewall riots back in June 1969 (when being gay was classified as a mental illness…) June was forever more dedicated to commemorate the sole reason pride began. We still have so much more to do to make the UK (and the world) a safer place for our LGBTQ+ people, so I urge you to spend this pride month reflecting what you know and what you don’t know, learn and unlearn, review your diversity and inclusion policies, incorporate pronouns to email signatures, check in with your LGBTQ+ employee network and ask if there’s anything else you could be doing. Donate to LGBTQ+ related charities… There are SO many small, yet simple acts of kindness that can really make your peers feel comfortable in both the workplace and outside of work. Do more than add a rainbow to your logo…🌈 #pridemonth #pride #lgbtq #diversity #inclusion

Partnerships play a crucial role in It Gets Better’s success, and as we gear up for Pride Month, WE NEED YOUR HELP! We’re seeking new brand partners to collaborate with us in uplifting, empowering, and connecting LGBTQ+ youth around the globe. Maybe you know someone? Maybe you are that someone? With a significant amount of It Gets Better’s support deriving from corporate partnerships, we’re taking an all-hands-on-deck approach to finding our latest brand partners. Partnering with It Gets Better can make a world of difference during Pride Month and beyond! Together, we can create a more inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ youth feel empowered and supported. So, if you work with or are connected to a brand that aligns with our core values and shares our commitment to diversity and equality, read more about partnering with It Gets Better at the link below. LGBTQ+ youth require the visible and tangible backing of allies as they navigate environments that may not always be accepting. We’re excited about the possibility of working together toward a brighter future! With Hope, Morgan Cohn, MA Ed HD (they/them) Strategic Partnerships Manager It Gets Better https://lnkd.in/ghNfd7ya #itgetsbetter #lgbtq #brandpartners #strategicpartners #fundraising #pridemonth #lgbtqyouth #inclusion #diversity #prideallyear #pride365 #socialimpact #corporateresponsibility #visibilitymatters

As #LGBTQ+ History Month begins, our LGBTQ+ and allies’ network, PRISM, have put together a timeline to take a step back in time and reflect on how far the rights movement has come, highlighting the ‘long road to #equality’. In this timeline we share some of the ‘firsts’ in the fight for equality and reflect on the changes that still need to happen. https://lnkd.in/epuCGrDW #diversityandinclusion