Lucas Public Affairs’ Post

Doing it right!

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

Always Just a Call Away! Preparing for a mortgage? Know your options and speak with a loan officer, like me, who will listen and provide options tailored to you and your finances and wishes, then you make the decisions. The worst thing one can do is find a home and then get pre-approved with the risk of finding out you don’t qualify for some minor reason and can’t currently make an offer. 💪💰 Knowing your buying power is the key to finding your dream home. Get pre-approved for your mortgage today and start your house hunt on the right foot. With same-day service, including weekends!. I'm here to help you every step of the way 7 days a week and always take calls after 5 PM. Know your options and realize your dreams with your Florida Lender. 🌴🌞 #thehelpfulLO #home #house #listreports #homeowner #househunting #realestate #mortgage #loanofficer #investment #finances Don't forget to ask me about the FAIRWAY ADVANTAGE, which gives you the highest buying power and loan approval without a property attached. It's the perfect way to start your search with your realtor, knowing you have an underwritten loan approval before you start looking for your next or new home and can close fast! Because you are already fully pre-approved by an underwriter, before finding a home. That is the Fairway Advantage! Know your options and realize your dreams with your Florida Lender. 🌴🌞 #thehelpfulLO #home #house #listreports #homeowner #househunting #realestate #mortgage #loanofficer #investment #finances

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.

3 things that I implore you to remember this Pride season. 1. Allyship is wonderful, but it is something earned, not just claimed. If you say that you are an ally, you must back that up with more than words. It must be backed up with actions. 2. Remember that being out is a privilege. To all who are unable to be out for whatever reason, or who choose to remain private about your situations, you are still valid and you still deserve to have pride. This elder-queer loves and supports you. <3 3. Please remember that while it is wonderful and AMAZING to support small and independent queer artists during Pride season and beyond, not everyone has the financial stability and privilege to do so, and purchasing a small trinket from a big box store may be cheaper, easier, and more accessible for some folx and that is OK. Don't shame people for it, because you don't know their experience or what they are going through. Also, those public corporate displays? They often matter to people who cannot be out for their own reasons. So absolutely celebrate independently, responsibly, etc. But have patience and grace for all. Happy Pride, everyone!

How can I incorporate LGBTQ+ elements into my celebrations? Consider using LGBTQ+ inclusive decorations, incorporating rainbow colors, or supporting LGBTQ+ businesses. You can also include diverse music, and ensure your guest list is welcoming to everyone. Remember to be mindful and respectful in your approach.

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

“As the studies and surveys cited here demonstrate, #LGBTQ+ people living in #rural communities encounter the same mental healthcare challenges as other rural Americans, but the disparities in accessing resources and appropriate treatment can be even more difficult because of existing prejudices and discrimination. It’s a call to action for rural communities to come together to increase awareness and dispel the stigma experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Some ways communities can help to tackle the disparities include: In rural #healthcare – Educate the workforce, put in place inclusive systems of care, and implement policies that address discrimination. In rural schools – Implement practices and policies to support #LGBTQyouth. In local and state governments – Propose and support laws and public policies that enforce protections against discrimination of LGBTQ+ people.” #RuralHealth

What do #diversity and #inclusion have to do with business? 🌈 Besides being a crucial social responsibility, inclusive workplaces benefit from a variety of viewpoints, leading to more informed decisions and a better understanding of diverse customer needs. 🎯 A bonus: When people feel included, they are more engaged, motivated, and loyal. Sounds like a win-win to me! How do you see diversity and inclusion reflected in your workplace? ✨

How can leaders help create a work environment that provides the foundation for the LGBTQ+ community to be seen, heard and included? Members of Spencer Stuart's LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group share their insights: https://lnkd.in/gAAkHt2u