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Just in time for the end of 🌈 Pride Month, our friends at LGBTQ+ Victory Institute released their 2024 "Out for America" report. It is packed with insightful stats and data visualizations. We're happy to share it while highlighting a few notable findings: • Every state (plus Washington, D.C.) has at least one out LGBTQ+ elected official serving, totaling at least 1,303 LGBTQ+ elected officials nationwide. • Along with the good news, a caveat: At least 38,193 more LGBTQ+ people must be elected to achieve equitable representation. • Of particular interest to our mission: There are currently 235 LGBTQ+ state lawmakers (and only Louisiana, West Virginia and Idaho have no out legislators). Follow LGBTQ+ Victory Institute or go to https://lnkd.in/ehJwd25S to access the full report Of course, we acknowledge we must keep fighting for justice and fairness, but we also welcome this opportunity to celebrate milestones of progress. 🌈 Happy Pride!

🏳️🌈 Does your city make the list? 🏳️🌈 World Economic Forum's article on LGBTQ+ city ratings discusses the Open for Business list of the most and least inclusive cities for LGBTQ+ individuals in 2022. It highlights cities like Amsterdam, Boston, and London as some of the most inclusive, based on factors like legal protections, social acceptance, and community resources. The ratings aim to provide insights into global urban inclusivity and the varying experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in different cities. At Smart Futures Lab, we applaud social progress along with technological progress in cities around the world! 📖For more detailed information, view the full article: https://lnkd.in/eV-fYYdq

To members of the LBGTQ+ community, check out this article to learn more about securing your LGBTBE certification. #businessopportunity #business #lgbtq #certifications #pridemonth

🌈 The Importance of Highlighting LGBTQ+ Voices in Music 🎶 In an industry that has historically marginalized queer voices, it’s more important than ever to shine a light on the incredible LGBTQ+ artists making waves today. These musicians aren’t just creating art—they’re breaking barriers, telling authentic stories, and fostering a sense of belonging for so many who feel unseen. Music has always been a powerful tool for change, and when queer voices are amplified, they challenge norms, inspire conversations, and create space for greater representation. Whether it’s indie icons or mainstream artists, their contributions have shaped the cultural landscape in ways that go far beyond the music itself. We must continue to uplift and support LGBTQ+ voices, not only for the unique perspective they bring but for the future generations who need to see themselves reflected in the world. Let’s ensure the stage is big enough for everyone! #LGBTQMusic #QueerVoices #MusicAndCulture #RepresentationMatters #PopPalacePodcast

Stand out as a proud LGBTQ+ business owner. Gain a competitive edge and amplify your voice with the LGBTBE certification. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the process, from understanding the benefits to meeting eligibility criteria, but also empower you to unlock the full potential of this recognition. It shows you how to leverage LGBTBE certification to connect with a wider LGBTQ+ audience, collaborate with like-minded businesses, and attract partners who share your values. By the end, you'll be equipped with the confidence and capability to turn your commitment to your community into a strategic advantage, fostering growth and inclusivity. #lgbtqia #entrepreneurs

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.

For many years and from many companies, come June I typically receive an email from my LGBT ERG encouraging me to use a rainbow Pride-themed signature, with specific instructions to remove it in July. While it's heartening to see so many companies celebrating Pride Month, it's crucial to call out the performative allyship that fades as soon as July rolls around. Rainbow-washing—using the LGBTQ+ community's symbols for marketing purposes without supporting us year-round—does not advance our cause. True allyship means advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and equality consistently, not just when it's convenient or profitable. It's long past time for corporations to do better. Support us in policy, in practice, and in the workplace every single day. If your commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion vanishes after June, then your rainbow logo is nothing more than a hollow gesture.Let's push for genuine, sustained support. We deserve more than a month of attention—we deserve real, enduring change.

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!

🌈 Happy Pride Month! 🌈 As we kick off the second week of pride, let's prioritize education and understanding. Here are some ways to get started: 📚 Read LGBTQ+ literature: Dive into books that explore diverse stories and experiences. Share your reading list and recommendations with #PrideReads. 🎬 Watch LGBTQ+ films: Explore documentaries and movies that shed light on LGBTQ+ history and culture. Share your favorite picks using #PrideWatchlist. 🎧 Listen to LGBTQ+ podcasts: Tune in to podcasts hosted by LGBTQ+ individuals or covering LGBTQ+ topics. Share your favorite episodes using #PridePodcasts. 💬 Engage in conversations: Have open and respectful discussions with friends and family about LGBTQ+ issues and experiences. Use #PrideConversations to share insights and reflections. Let's celebrate love, diversity, and equality together! 🏳️🌈 #PrideMonth #LoveIsLove

Turing, Landin and Wilson are all names you should know if you want to be an expert in tech history. Learn more about five key LGBTQ+ icons in tech history who have changed the world and broken cultural barrier. #pridemonth #lgbtqhistory #techhistory