Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego’s Post

Improving diversity in #Zoos and #Aquariums has been a topic of discussion for years. Across the country, AZA institutions such as Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium and Monterey Bay Aquarium are deeply invested in the kind of diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion (DEAI) work that seeks to address barriers in the community. Nonprofits are engaged as well, including Minorities In Aquarium and Zoo Science (MIAZS). Canopy Strategic Partners shares the findings of a #Research project done to uncover barriers staff may face to in the zoo and aquarium community. The findings confirm that many people have, indeed, experienced obstacles, which disproportionately impact LGBTQ people, people of color, and women. Other barriers identified in the research include limited professional development opportunities and lack of mentors. These findings can help zoos and aquariums find resources and partners such as MIAZS, that strive to bring underrepresented communities into zoo and aquarium jobs, while also helping to support those who are already in the field. Continue reading the personal and professional experiences of those in the zoo and aquarium field in Connect: https://bit.ly/3UjxjAu. #DEAI #Diversity #Equity #Accessibility #Inclusion #Missouri #California

🌈 As we approach Pride Month in June, let's focus on creating safer workspaces for LGBTQIA+ people. Check out our tips on fostering inclusivity and support. At Strategio, we proudly stand with the LGBTQIA+ community. 🏳️🌈 #PrideMonth #InclusiveWorkplace #Strategio #techsuccess #diversitymatters #diversityintech #diversity #dei #inclusion #belonging #InclusionMatters

Every June, cities around the world are awash in vibrant rainbows as the LGBTQ+ community and allies celebrate Pride Month. This celebration is often associated with coming out, a pivotal moment for many LGBTQ+ individuals. However, Pride Month is about much more than that. It is a powerful affirmation of pride in oneself, a celebration of self-acceptance, and a call to embrace our authentic identities. Coming out is undoubtedly significant; it marks a personal and often transformative journey. Yet, Pride Month extends beyond this singular act. It is about recognizing and honoring the ongoing process of self-acceptance. For many, embracing their identity is a lifelong journey that involves overcoming societal prejudices, internalized stigma, and personal struggles. Pride Month celebrates the courage it takes to live authentically every day. Moreover, Pride is about visibility and representation. It serves as a reminder that LGBTQ+ individuals exist in all walks of life and deserve to be seen, heard, and respected. This visibility is crucial in fostering a sense of belonging and community, especially for those who might feel isolated or marginalized as I did growing up and even through my young adulthood. I felt I was worth less than the folks who were “normal”. At its core, Pride is about love and self-respect. It’s a declaration that everyone deserves to love and be loved, free from fear and discrimination. It's about acknowledging the worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In essence, Pride Month is a celebration of the entire journey of self-acceptance. It’s about coming out, yes, but it's also about what comes after—living openly, authentically, and proudly. It’s a time to embrace who we are and to support others in their journeys toward self-acceptance. Pride is not just an event; it's a powerful affirmation of identity, community, and love…FOR EVERYONE. I’m proud to be a part of an organization who celebrates this month with our community!

#ALLY: One that is associated with another as a helper: a person or group that provides assistance and support in an ongoing effort, activity, or struggle. Being an #ally of the LGQBT+ community means actively supporting and advocating for the rights and well-being of everyone in that community. To be an effective ally, we should work to educate ourselves on the diverse identities within the community, the history of LGBTQ+ rights movements, and the ongoing issues they face. If I'm honest, this is an ongoing effort for me. Not just within the LGBTQ+ community, but understanding the history, diversities, and ongoing issues of those of different races, origins, religions, and abilities. I am working every day to become a better ally, and proud to work for a company that is doing the same. Taking actionable steps is vital in demonstrating genuine allyship. Here are some practical ways from my friends at TriPride TN to support the LGBTQ+ community: ➡ Educate Yourself: Continuously seek knowledge about LGBTQ+ issues, terminology, and experiences. Read books, attend workshops, and engage with credible resources to deepen your understanding. ➡ Listen and Amplify Voices: Actively listen to the experiences and stories shared by LGBTQ+ individuals. Amplify their voices by sharing their narratives, achievements, and struggles. Centering their experiences helps create space for authentic representation. ➡ Stand Up Against Discrimination: Speak out against homophobia, transphobia, and any form of discrimination. Challenge stereotypes and biases, and be a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in your personal and professional life. ➡ Use Inclusive Language: Be mindful of the language you use. Respect and use individuals’ chosen pronouns and gender identities. Avoid assumptions or making insensitive jokes or comments that may perpetuate harmful stereotypes. ➡ Support LGBTQ+ Organizations: Contribute to and volunteer with local LGBTQ+ organizations that provide support, resources, and advocacy for the community. Your involvement helps amplify their impact. ➡ Foster Safe Spaces: Create and promote safe and inclusive environments where LGBTQ+ individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. Be an ally in your personal relationships, workplaces, and social circles. Happy Pride Month, everyone! #safespace #PRIDE

Unite for Impact: Break Down Silos, Share Innovations, and Learn Best Practices Together. Collaboration Starts Here!

Over the summer we at Trivium Packaging ran an internal campaign where people shared their reflections about Pride and LGBTQ+ topics. I was impressed by the courage and openness shown by the employees who contributed. It was also an eye-opener to see how many are impacted by diversity and inclusion in many different ways. As one of the employees put it: “Inclusion is everyone’s business.”   I would also argue that improving understanding of DEIB is business critical. Diverse teams bring diversity of thought when people feel included and accepted which in turn spurs innovation and growth. Diversity also addresses recruitment challenges by widening the talent pool. So, yes, “inclusion is everyone’s business” and it is also the foundation for business growth and continuity.   Keep an eye on Trivium Packaging’s LinkedIn to read a few of the reflections from our employees. #WeContainWhatMatters

Supporting LGBTQIA+🏳️🌈 employees is both a matter of fairness and respect but it also helps businesses to: - Talent Attraction and Retention: companies that can offer their LGBTQIA+ employees an affirming work environment win the best talent, resulting in a more satisfied workforce, reducing turnover and increasing productivity; - Better Reputation: by committing to inclusivity, companies will be perceived as better entities for their customers, partners, and the general public, resulting in better relationships with the main stakeholders; - Employee Mental Health and Well-being: when LGBTQIA+ employees feel supported, this adds to their mental health and well-being, resulting in higher engagement and lower absenteeism. Syone promotes a diverse, inclusive, and supportive work environment for everyone. If you're looking for a partner that values #respect as the foundation of all relationships or are pursuing a #career change with a company that cares about you and your uniqueness, connect with us! #PrideMonth #LGBTQIA #Inclusivity #Diversity

How can CSR funding drive real change for the LGBTQIA+ community? At MIST LGBTQIA+, we believe in the power of Corporate Social Responsibility to make a significant impact. CSR funding is more than just financial support—it’s a vital tool for creating safe, inclusive spaces and providing essential resources to those who need them most. Your CSR contributions can make a tangible difference, enhancing our ability to reach more individuals and support their journeys. By partnering with us, you become a key player in advancing positive change and ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive. Ready to make a difference? Discover how your CSR efforts can transform lives and support the LGBTQIA+ community. Let's work together to create meaningful change. #CSR #LGBTQIA #CommunitySupport #MakeADifference

Happy B Corp Month! We are so proud to be part of the B Corp community. Transforming our industry for the better has always been at our core, and as a certified B Corp this commitment extends to our communities, our people and our planet. 🌎💛🩶 Once a B Corp certifies, the work doesn’t stop. We continuously hold ourselves to account by asking how we can do better for our Zutonites, our customers, our communities and our planet. This B Corp Month we’re taking action! 💡Giving back together: We have a calendar packed with volunteer days, giving our Zutonites the chance to support causes close to their hearts.  💡Creating a greener future: We have announced the upcoming launch of our Eco Reward Scheme to incentivise sustainable practices among our Zutonites.   💡Building communities: We have launched our LGBTQ+ Network, creating a space for Zutonites to connect and make an impact by working with local charities and communities.   💡Empowering voices: In honour of International Women's Day, we hosted an inspiring off-site event, amplifying female voices across Zuto. 💡Leading by example: We have been promoting a culture of inclusivity by sharing our market-leading family-friendly, fertility-friendly and foster-friendly policies with industry peers. 💡Financial wellness focus: Partnering with Stratton Wealth Management, we are hosting a workshop to empower our Zutonite’s financial knowledge. B Lab UK #BCorp #BCorpMonth #Sustainability #Wellbeing #Zutopia 

As #PrideMonth2024 comes to an end, let’s remember to continuously celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community all year-round. At YLD, we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and continuously strive to improve our support for the LGBTQIA+ community. We host regular learning sessions with our team, and together with community advocates we explore new ways to support the LGBTQIA+ community together. Let's keep the discussion going: How are you supporting the LGBTQIA+ community? Comment below! #PrideMonth #pride #inclusivity