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When growing up, coming out never felt like a viable option for me. The fear of rejection and misunderstanding was so overwhelming that there were times when I disliked myself so intensely I didn’t want to exist anymore. Living this way hindered my potential early in life. I constantly feared what my friends, family, and colleagues would think if they knew the real me. This fear was a heavy burden, stifling my ability to live authentically and achieve my dreams. Ever since the 2nd grade, I've dreamed of becoming an architect. Architecture, to me, has the unique power to touch people’s hearts without asking for permission. It's a beautiful, transformative art that can change lives for the better. The structures we create have the power to inspire, comfort, and bring communities together. Coming out was a pivotal moment in my life and I’ve been truly lucky with the positive acceptance from my friends, family, and coworkers. It allowed me to fully embrace my passions for life, architecture, and design. I believe everyone deserves the freedom to be their authentic selves, free from fear and judgment. This freedom unlocks our true potential and enables us to contribute our best to the world. Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community is a fundamental aspect of my identity. Working in an environment that celebrates who I am at my core is essential. Pride Month is more than just parties and celebrations; it's a reminder to those in less accepting communities that they are loved and that being true to oneself is crucial for a better society. It serves as a beacon of hope and acceptance, showing that diversity is something to be cherished, not feared. Pride is important because, even today, there are individuals who believe they are better off dead than living as their true selves. This reality is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Pride Month is a call to action, reminding us to support and uplift each other, to fight for equality and acceptance, and to ensure that everyone knows they are valued and worthy of love just as they are. Let’s always remember that our visibility and pride can be a lifeline for someone struggling in the darkness. Together, we can create a world where everyone is free to live openly and authentically. #ThinkPride #Pride

🌈 Pic from yesterday’s LA Pride parade celebrating LGBTQ+ representation in architecture, engineering, and construction! 🏗️🌟 As we continue to build our cities, bridges, and skylines, it’s crucial that we construct a more inclusive industry—one that embraces diversity in all its forms. Let’s talk about why LGBTQ+ representation matters in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). Creativity and Innovation: Diverse teams bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. When LGBTQ+ professionals contribute their unique viewpoints, they enhance problem-solving and design creativity. Imagine the impact of an architect who understands the nuances of LGBTQ+ spaces or an engineer who advocates for sustainable, inclusive infrastructure. Breaking Stereotypes: Historically, AEC fields have been male-dominated and heteronormative. By promoting LGBTQ+ representation, we challenge stereotypes and broaden the definition of success. Visibility matters—when young LGBTQ+ individuals see role models thriving in these professions, they’re inspired to pursue their passions. Safe and Inclusive Spaces: Our built environment affects everyone. Architects design homes, offices, and public spaces. Engineers ensure safety and functionality. Construction professionals bring these visions to life. When LGBTQ+ voices are part of the process, we create spaces that feel safe, welcoming, and affirming for all. Business Impact: Companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion perform better. Diverse teams lead to better decision-making, increased productivity, and higher employee satisfaction. LGBTQ+ employees who feel accepted and valued bring their best selves to work, driving positive outcomes. Advocacy and Allyship: Allies play a crucial role. Straight and cisgender colleagues can actively support LGBTQ+ coworkers by educating themselves, challenging biases, and advocating for inclusive policies. Together, we build a stronger, more resilient industry. #buildoutalliance #hendersonengineers

Join us to learn about the design of the new The DC Center for the LGBTQ+ Community. Learn about the vision and process used to create an inclusive, and sustainable space. https://smpl.is/98c2o Hosted by Hickok Cole, this moderated panel discussion will feature insights from key team members making the project a realty. Joined by Randy Stogsdill, AIA from the design team at Hickok Cole and Eddie Mansius from The DC Center, and moderated by Greg Hammer of Turner Construction Company, we'll hear how they designed a collaborative, inclusive, and sustainable space to serve multiple LGBTQ+ not-for-profits. The new space will be a hub for community support and connection with its modern amenities, from meeting and conference spaces, a cyber computer area, a new kitchen and food pantry, and accessible showers and restrooms. 1. Inspiration and Insight :: Hear firsthand from the designers and stakeholders about the creative process behind a groundbreaking LGBTQ+ community space. 2. Knowledge Sharing :: Gain valuable insights into sustainable design practices and the unique requirements of spaces serving diverse communities. 3. Community and Connection :: Meet and network with like-minded professionals and advocates dedicated to fostering inclusivity in design and construction. 4. Empowerment :: Learn how thoughtful design can empower and support the LGBTQ+ community through intentional and inclusive spaces. 5. Future Opportunities :: Discover ways to get involved with the DC Center and support their mission to create a welcoming environment for all. #designingforinclusion #DCcenterLGBTQ #inclusivecommunity #sustainabledesign #networkingevent #empowerthecommunity #lgbtq

As an executive member of the board and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’ve witnessed the power of diversity firsthand.   Our journey toward a more inclusive workplace has been remarkable, but there’s still work to do. It’s up to all of us to champion equality, challenge biases, and create safe spaces for every individual.   In a period when open words of exclusion and discrimination come to light again in a revolting brown wave, it is even more important than ever. The business environment creates powerful communities in which we can fight for justice and equality. The strength of a civilization does not come from its toughest members, it derives from the attention given to the weakest.   We have been duly fighting for the presence of women in construction. We have made progress, there is still a lot more to do. But let’s not forget that diversity should not be restricted to parity. People still endure discrimination and bad behaviors because of their origin, their religion, the color of their skin, their sexual orientation…   Never since the last world war have those topics of equality and non discrimination been so painfully and obviously at risk. As citizens as well as business leaders, we have the responsibility to make our voice heard on the fact that we want a world of equality and fairness.   #Bouygues group, we believe in solidarity and the fact that our global business is at first a formidable human adventure.   At #Bouygues Construction, we don’t just build projects, we build for life.   That commitment extends beyond our physical structures—it’s about building a community where everyone feels valued and empowered.   I cannot thank enough my peers for their behavior. As you can only know it if you have felt it, they cannot measure what it is to come to an ExCo seminar with your husband and feel that respect, warmth and simplicity. A big thank at our CEO #PascalMinault for creating this environment. In a simple and low key way, you are a true role model.   Let’s continue breaking down barriers, fostering understanding, and celebrating the unique contributions that each person brings. As we are #Buildingforlife, let’s make one worth it, open, inclusive and respectful.   Together, we can build a world where everyone thrives. 🌈✨   #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusiveLeadership #EqualityMatters #BuildingforLife

Celebrating Pride in construction 🌈 Whatever background you are from, there is a place for you in the construction industry. The industry is committed to embracing diversity, equality and inclusion, and creating a working environment where the LGBTQ+ community can not only feel respected and safe, but thrive and succeed. This is achieved through putting strategies into place, such as an industry-wide advice network, but also through celebrating events like Pride Month. Research has shown that making the workplace more inclusive for LGBTQ+ employees brings many business benefits, including: ▶️ Better job satisfaction and productivity among all staff ▶️ Wider choice when recruiting staff ▶️ Better staff retention ▶️ Improved company reputation – heterosexual audiences also scrutinise businesses for their diversity record. A structured approach to develop fairness, inclusion and respect in construction companies has been provided by the CITB’s Be Fair Framework. It is aimed at creating workplaces where employees feel valued and supported. This is achieved through free resources that look at the Equality Act 2010 and how to implement this effectively in the workplace. There is still more work to do, but employees from the LGBTQ+ community should no longer feel that they do not belong in construction. The Go Construct website provides lots of information about how the construction industry is embracing equality, diversity and inclusion. 🌈 https://bit.ly/3qs8BBi #PrideMonth #Pride2024 #LGBTQ #loveislove #equality #diversity #inclusion

🎨✨ Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion this Pride Month with Uxcel! 🌈💻 This June, I had the honor of working on a special project for Uxcel in celebration of Pride Month. My goal was to create an inclusive and colorful experience that highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in the UX community. How did you celebrate Pride Month in your projects? Comment below and share your contributions to promoting diversity and inclusion in design! Uxcel #PrideMonth #UXcel #InclusiveDesign #Diversity #LGBTQ+ #UXDesign

As designers, it is our responsibility to create spaces that are safe, accessible and welcoming to all individuals. In honour of International #Pride Month, let’s reflect on how we as designers can foster welcoming and secure spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals. Implementing gender-neutral restrooms is a crucial step in this direction. These essential spaces promote safety and accessibility by incorporating clear signage, ensuring privacy with full-height stalls, and providing amenities and accessibility features for people with disabilities. Additionally, inclusive design can extend to diverse artwork, non-discriminatory signage, and universally accessible public spaces. Our role as designers is to ensure that every individual feels valued and included, thus supporting diversity and inclusion in all our projects. #StudioJaneInsights #PrideMonth #InclusiveDesigns #UniversalDesignPractises #SafeSpaces

Ricoh has been celebrating SDGs Action Month globally throughout June, focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). As a result of this and our ongoing commitment to the UN SDGs and DEI as pillars of our culture and business strategy, we joined the Pride Month celebration worldwide.   As we reflect on the significant milestone of the Stonewall riots that occurred on June 28, 1969, we acknowledge society's progress in ensuring the LGBTQ+ community's representation and visibility. However, it's crucial to remember that the fight for justice and equality is far from over.   At Ricoh, we are continuously taking steps to ensure a safe and inclusive workplace for everyone, including our LGBTQ+ employees, customers, and business partners. This commitment is not just for Pride Month but is a year-round effort.   Throughout this month, Ricoh has been actively engaged in a variety of initiatives across the organization, each one a testament to our ongoing DEI journey:   🌈 With over 300 participants and DONNA VENABLE and Gavin Jordan-Smith as Executive hosts, the Ricoh North America Pride event featured guest speaker Jennifer Hauseman, Vice President, Strategy & Campaigns, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth in a discussion around allyship, community support, and Pride education. 🌈 Ricoh Europe and Ricoh UK hosted a live webinar that explored the roots of Pride and the crucial role that allies play in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. They also created blogs, articles, and videos from Nicola Downing, Sophie Cox, and Tarik Reid to support the SDG objectives and the link with DEI initiatives in the workplace. 🌈 Ricoh LATAM's LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group partnered with EAP Latina to host four live webinars to learn more about Pride Month, strategies to make the workplace more inclusive for the community and inspire others to join the group. They also shared articles and videos from employees and executives like Diego Imperio, sharing their stories and commitment to DEI. 🌈 In the APAC and Japan regions, many initiatives have taken place to emphasize the importance of equity.   There are numerous ways, big and small, that each individual or company can show support for the LGBTQ+ community. Comment below on some of the best practices that you've seen.     #SDGsActionMonth #DEI #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #LGBTQ #PrideMonth #Sustainability #Ricoh #StonewallAnniversary #CorporateResponsibility #InclusiveWorkplace #Allyship

🌈 Inclusion Beyond June: Embracing Pride All Year Round 🌈 As Pride Month starts, it's crucial to remember that our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community shouldn't be limited to just one month of celebration. The principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion are timeless and must be woven into the fabric of our organizations and society every day of the year. Here's why: Continuous Support and Visibility: The challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals don't end on June 30th. By providing ongoing support and visibility, we affirm the importance of their experiences and contributions, fostering a more inclusive environment where everyone feels seen and valued. Sustainable Change: Long-lasting change requires more than a month of awareness. It necessitates year-round efforts, including policy development, educational initiatives, and creating safe spaces for dialogue and growth. This sustained focus helps dismantle systemic biases and promotes true equality. Employee Engagement and Retention: A culture of inclusivity benefits everyone. Employees who feel supported and respected are more engaged, productive, and likely to stay with their organizations. Showing unwavering support for LGBTQ+ colleagues helps build a workplace where all individuals can thrive. Brand Authenticity and Trust: Companies that champion LGBTQ+ rights consistently—not just when it's trending—demonstrate authenticity and integrity. This builds trust with customers, partners, and the wider community, reinforcing the company's reputation as a leader in social responsibility. Innovation and Growth: Diverse teams bring diverse perspectives, driving innovation and creativity. By fostering an environment where all voices are heard and respected throughout the year, organizations can unlock new ideas and opportunities for growth. Let's move beyond symbolic gestures and commit to real, sustained inclusivity. Embracing the LGBTQ+ community year-round is not just the right thing to do—it's a smart business strategy and a vital step towards a more equitable world. #PrideAllYear #allyship #DiversityAndInclusion #LGBTQ+ #Equality #InclusiveWorkplace #Authenticity #SustainableChange

As Pride Month draws to a close, we reflect on the celebration and awareness raised for the LGBTQ+ community's pursuit of equal justice and the issues affecting its members. In the UK, significant progress has been made towards acceptance and equality. However, the Architecture and Construction Industry still faces challenges. A 2017 survey revealed that 39% of Architects heard homophobic slurs used as insults in the past year, and 48% of gay and transgender Architects feel discouraged due to a lack of openly gay colleagues. Furthermore, 66% of respondents expressed a desire for more support for sexual and gender minorities within the industry. These statistics highlight the ongoing need for improvement. At BoonBrown, we place Equality and Diversity at the core of our values. We believe that a welcoming and open work environment allows individuals to thrive and achieve their career aspirations. To promote this, we have incorporated Equality and Diversity training into our Mentor program, aiming to educate and raise awareness among our colleagues. These training sessions often lead to open conversations and a deeper understanding of individual issues, fostering an inclusive mindset. Ultimately, it is crucial for employees to feel at home and valued, knowing that their differences do not affect their roles or how they are treated in the workplace. Companies can stay up-to-date with inclusivity by regularly sharing blogs, articles, and promoting team gatherings to maintain an open and friendly environment. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive industry for everyone. Let's continue to champion equality and celebrate the diversity that makes our community strong. Happy Pride Month from all of us at BoonBrown! #pridemonth #lgbtq #equalityanddiversity #inclusiveworkplace #supportingdiversity #inclusivitymatters #openconversations #diversitytraining #industrychange #championequality https://lnkd.in/eVKcfs7j