Michael Montgomery’s Post

I always think of today, as we celebrate International Pride Day, as a day to honor respect in its deepest essence. Yes, we need to talk about this throughout the year, and yes, we need to talk about it today, which marks a significant milestone in the struggle of the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. This date primarily aims to raise awareness about the importance of building a society free of prejudice and equal for all, where everyone is respected and has their rights guaranteed. As a leader, I feel a responsibility to create opportunities for everyone to access dignified work, feel included, and be supported by equitable development and career policies. We play a crucial role in welcoming people and engaging in discussions about policies, practices, and initiatives that continuously advance the inclusion and equity agenda. As individuals, we need to broaden our worldview and understand that "exclusion" is often our default mode, while "inclusion" requires intention, learning, listening, and empathy. It is by holding hands that we will evolve. #PrideDay #Inclusion #Equality #Respect #PrideDay #Inclusion #Equality #Respect #PrideEveryDay #UnityInDiversity #HumanRights #PrideAndJoy #LGBTQCommunity #PrideCelebration #GenderEuality

A University of Washington study found LGBTQ+ Asian Americans are considered more American than heterosexual Asian Americans. Participants were asked to categorize people on a 7-point scale on questions like, "How fluently do you think this person speaks English?" and “How integrated is this person in American culture?” The study found that white participants were perceived as American regardless of their sexual orientation. This reinforces research illustrating the problem of white Americans being perceived as "more American" than people of color. Having a queer identity may make an Asian American seem less foreign, but they also face unique challenges due to their intersectional experience. Many will experience racism in their ethnic communities and racism in the LGBTQ+ community. As we celebrate Pride Month, it's important to celebrate and support LGBTQ+ community members from all walks of life.

Diverse and authentic LGBTQ+ representation in media is important and impactful. Yet, we continue to see a lack of nuanced portrayals in mainstream entertainment. This post explores and challenges the "GBF (gay best friend)" trope, which has become all too familiar. The GBF (gay best friend) trope is a common theme in movies, TV, and other entertainment media where an LGBTQ+ character is cast as a friend to a straight character, often providing support, comic relief, and advice without being given a developed backstory of their own. This portrayal, though seemingly entertaining and progressive, perpetuates stereotypes and fails to represent the full humanity and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals. As we strive for diverse and authentic representation, let's challenge the GBF trope and demand nuanced depictions that honor the wide range of LGBTQ+ identities and kinds of friendships that exist. 🌈💙 Click the link in the comments below to read the full blog post. #reframe52 #allyshipisaverb #deieducation #inclusion #dei #inclusionmatters #deib #deistrategy #diversityandinclusion #diversityequityinclusion #belonging #doingbetter #allyship #benefits #humanresources #pridemonth #pride #visibility #LGBTQvisibility #GBF #LBF #LGBTQRepresentation #AuthenticityMatters #friendship

🌈 Kick Off Pride Month with EARLY PR! 🌈 This Pride Month, EARLY PR reflects on the rich history and significant impact of the Black LGBTQ+ experience and Black Queer Feminism, a praxis that EARLY PR considers foundational to our company values. Icons like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, pivotal in the Stonewall Riots, inspire us to continue advocating for LGBTQ+ equity. Black Queer Feminism, championed by scholars like Audre Lorde and bell hooks, reminds us to honor our roots and champion our successes. At EARLY PR, we believe in the power of brands that care about building an equitable society, and this is reflected in our clients' work. We are committed to using our platform and expertise to support and amplify the voices of the Black LGBTQ+ community and all those striving for a more inclusive world. Join us in honoring Pride Month and standing up for inclusivity and equality in every aspect of our work and lives. Together, let's create a world where everyone can thrive. 🌟 #PrideMonth #EARLYPR #Diversity #Inclusion #Equity #Community #LGBTQ+ #Empowerment #BlackLGBTQ #BlackQueerFeminism #Marketing #PublicRelations #InnovativeSolutions

I just finished the course “Understanding and Supporting LGBTQ+ Employees” by Rhodes Perry! It is very helpful for anyone eager to know how to be a more effective Ally. Check it out: https://lnkd.in/essX7Spt #lgbtq #allyship.

A Month of LGBTQ+ Icons: George Takei As a queer person of color and an iconic figure in queer culture, George Takei's influence surpasses his on-screen presence as a star actor in Star Trek. Takei's unwavering openness about his identity not only sparks crucial conversations about LGBTQ+ representation but also sheds light on the intersection of race and sexuality. His journey from experiencing discrimination to becoming a prominent advocate underscores the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that honor diversity in all its forms. Takei's resilience and advocacy offer profound lessons for embracing diversity and fostering belonging in professional settings. His courage to speak out against prejudice and promote understanding has paved the way for greater inclusivity in the workplace. Takei's ability to infuse humor into his activism reminds us that championing diversity can be impactful and enjoyable.

Dear business leaders, As we approach LGBTQ+ Pride Month, it's important to remember that meaningful support is more than just posting rainbows and making press statements. We must take tangible actions to support our LGBTQ+ employees and create a safe, authentic work environment. Marching in a parade is fun, but there is hard work to he done. This means implementing policies that protect and support LGBTQ+ individuals, and actively working against politicians and policies that do not prioritize LGBTQ+ rights. Allyship is hard work, but it is necessary work. Let's make this Pride Month a time of true progress and change. Help create a workplace that is inclusive and supportive of all individuals. #LGBTQ+ #PrideMonth #Allyship #Inclusion #Diversity #Equity

At US², our commitment to inclusion embraces every intersection of identity. Today, we are diving into the layers of challenges faced by individuals at the intersection of sizeism and LGBTQ+. It's a dialogue that enriches our understanding and strengthens our unity. Individuals facing sizeism and LGBTQ+ identity may encounter unique hurdles. Let's acknowledge these challenges and work towards a community where everyone feels seen and valued. Share your experiences or insights on the intersection of sizeism and LGBTQ+ identity. How can we create a community that embraces every individual in their entirety? Engage in the dialogue below, and let's weave a narrative of unity that includes every unique identity. #Sizeism #US2Inc #US2Consulting #SocialJustice #Justice #Equity #Diversity #Inclusion

This LGBT+ History Month, we're exploring why representation is important. 🌈 For too long, LGBT stories and identities were silenced, ignored and misrepresented. It's crucial that people see positive multi-dimensional portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters so stigma can be combatted and LGBTQ+ young people feel understood, valued and feel they have a bright future ahead. 🌟 LGBTQ+ is a normal, rightful part of the social fabric and should be portrayed as such, rather than ignored or even vilified like in the case of Alan Turing. He was instrumental in turning the tide in WW2 but was only pardoned for his crime of 'being gay' 50 years after his death. People's LGBT status should not have any bearing on what they can accomplish. Our choices and backgrounds mould us into the people we are and change how we look at situations and how we deal with things. It takes all sorts of people to come up with great ideas, just like Alan Turing. After all, if everyone was the same, we'd never get new ideas and would only get the same outcomes. We need to embrace our differences and ensure that whatever walk of life we are from, we're all represented. 🙌🏻 Comment your thoughts below. 👇🏻 #diversity #awareness #awarenessmonth #LGBTHistoryMonth #inclusion #openconversations #learning

June is a month bursting with significance, and as a proud black woman-owned, minority business, we stand at the intersection of celebration and advocacy. 🌈 Pride Month - This June, let's amplify our voices in support of LGBTQ+ rights. Did you know? A recent study shows that 46% of LGBTQ+ workers report being closeted at work. It's time for change! 🧠 Men's Mental Health Month- We acknowledge the silent struggle many men face. Statistically, 1 in 10 men experience depression and anxiety, yet less than half seek treatment. 🎊 Juneteenth - This Juneteenth, we remember that 156 years ago, the last enslaved African Americans learned they were free. This momentous day marks a critical point in our history. Dr. Rashonda Harris, our founder, eloquently connects these themes: "June invites us to reflect on our shared struggles and victories. Whether it’s fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, advocating for mental health awareness, or honoring the significance of Juneteenth, each battle moves us closer to a society that cherishes diversity and inclusivity." Join us in celebrating the richness of June and contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive world. #PurpleSheepConsulting #FabulousFridays #PrideMonth #MensMentalHealth #Juneteenth #Inclusivity #Diversity #Change Let's make every day fabulous! 🐑💜