Savannah Knell’s Post

Reflecting on my childhood, it's clear that my experiences were markedly different from many of my peers. Growing up feeling different, and navigating the complexities of understanding my identity in a world that often lacked understanding and acceptance, was a journey filled with challenges. It was these early experiences, marked by feelings of isolation and a longing for a community that understood, that laid the foundation for what would later become the MIST LGBTQ Foundation. Our mission was born from a personal understanding of the importance of acceptance, support, and love. Creating MIST was not just about building a community; it was about changing the narrative for future generations. I understand that not everyone can truly grasp what it feels like to grow up feeling out of place, to question your identity in a society that doesn't always provide the answers or the support you need. But from this personal journey, a crucial lesson emerged: the importance of sensitivity and empathy towards all, especially in environments where we spend a significant portion of our lives - our workplaces. This is a call to action for corporate leaders and employees alike to foster workplaces that are not just tolerant, but genuinely inclusive and safe for LGBTQ+ individuals. It's about moving beyond mere acceptance to creating environments where every person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels valued and supported. Let's be the architects of a corporate culture that celebrates diversity, practices empathy, and nurtures a sense of belonging for everyone. While not everyone will know how it feels to walk in my shoes, or the shoes of countless others in the LGBTQ+ community, everyone has the capacity to be a little more sensitive, a little more understanding, and a lot more supportive. #InclusionMatters #LGBTQSupport #SafeWorkplaces #DiversityAndInclusion #EmpathyInAction

#PrideMonth is already off to a fabulous start, because I'm posting on LinkedIn to share that Impact Media had the incredible opportunity to partner with LinkedIn for the 2024 "Out @ Work" Guide! And I'm quoted in the guide! 🌈 Working directly with the team at #LinkedIn, we were able to explore the real world challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals in the workplace. For instance, did you know that 75% of queer people feel the need to code-switch at their job? It's an unfortunate reality, but being LGBTQ+ typically leads to certain obstacles at work that others may not have to endure. Being at a company like Impact Media, I have never felt more comfortable with stepping into a workplace as my authentic self. Our staff is made up of 65% queer-identifying people, which is such a rarity that I do not take for granted. Having LinkedIn reach out for this collaboration was such a perfect fit for this team, and I'm so thankful to have been part of it. 💖 To read my quote for LinkedIn and a glimpse into how I use my queer identity as a skillset in the workplace, check out the 2024 "Out @ Work" Guide below ⬇ https://lnkd.in/gVStZARw

Happy Pride! 🌈 “Allyship refers to the actions, behaviors, and practices that people take to support, amplify, and advocate with others, especially with individuals who don't belong to the same social identity groups as themselves.” The list could go on for days, but I want to do a couple of shoutouts to those closest to me who have taught me so much about the importance of being an LGBTQ+ ally: My big sis Eleni H. who dedicates her life work to helping others. She opened up my eyes to the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community since she came out at the age of 21. I witnessed first hand the struggles and the strength it took … and takes. You kept me close and challenge me everyday, even when it was (and is) hard for me to understand at times. I am a better person and the passionate ally I am today because of you and your openness. Thank you for keeping me honest. I will always protect your right to exist. My brother from another mother Stephen Jacques, a role model as to what true vulnerable leadership should look like. Through your work you have no doubt impacted thousands. You have always been so open; not only in helping me understand on a personal level, but by providing support throughout my HR work over the years, enabling me to be an even stronger ally and pass on the message where I can. I am in awe of you. Finally, a big thank you to the Pod Point’s Pride Panel last week who left the audience with some great food for thought on how to be a better ally: 1. Don’t get drawn into debates about someone’s right to exist - it’s not up for debate. 2. Be inquisitive and open hearted. Don’t be afraid to ask. 3. If you’re interested and want to know more, make the effort to educate yourself via LGBTQ+ history, inclusive TV series, Trans voices etc. Listen to the right people.

Health and wellness are a major aspect of consumers’ daily lives. Americans spend a significant amount of time–and money–tending to their health. All brands, both within and outside of the health and wellness space, must understand consumers’ attitudes and behaviors in this key area of their lives. Learn how Americans across sexual identities approach their health and wellness in our blog. Our insights will help you win #LGBTQ+ people’s trust by recognizing their unique health struggles and providing tools to solve them! With our insights, you will be able to: 1.) Navigate health barriers LGBTQ+ people face; 2.) Champion mental health awareness and solutions; and 3.) Empower LGBTQ+ Americans’ health through community ties. Learn more in our blog, available below. #marketing #mrx #diversity #inclusion #diversityandinclusion #marketresearch #marketingandadvertising #consumerinsights

What does representing underrepresented talent actually mean? Not performatively🤧 but really what does it ACTUALLY mean Well….. Representing underrepresented talent is actively seeking out, promoting, and providing opportunities for individuals who belong to marginalised or minority groups within a particular industry or field. This can include racial or ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and others who may face systemic barriers to advancement or recognition. And not just when it’s seasonally appropriate e.g a international women’s day, BHM and Pride. But CONSISTENTLY giving these individuals visibility, support, and opportunities. These communities are not just a campaign, a season or way for brands to capitalise. Note to brands: Please be more intentional. These are real people lives you could be affecting. Check out : R/HOOD - we are actually doing the work.

Most companies preach that they are diverse and inclusive companies, yet they base and measure their D&I on how many LGBTQ+ employees have or how many marketing campaigns include this community (nothing against them; this is just a reflection of what I see all over social) D&I is more than just one community, and it’s definitely not a trend. D&I is not about “what’s your gender” or “how do you identify yourself” statistics from application forms; D&I is all about being diverse. It’s about providing equal opportunities to people, engaging with cultural diversity, neurodiversity, physical ability, geographical diversity, and much, much more! On Thursday (03/21), we celebrated Down Syndrome Awareness Day, and I have to say I have barely seen any posts about it from these so-called D&I companies. Let’s get real; let’s embrace diversity for what it is. I am leaving you with some inspirational diversity quotes! * "Diversity in all its forms is the path to greatness." — James D Wilson * "We are all different, which is great because we are all unique. Without diversity, life would be very boring." — Catherine Pulsifer * "Diversity is the mix. Inclusion is making the mix work." — Andres Tapia #RockYourSocks #Diversity #Inclusion #IhadtoSayIt

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻 𝘃𝘀. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝘁 🌈 Navigating the journey of self-discovery is like walking through doors – some we enter quietly, others we swing wide open for the world to see. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻: Entering the space where we acknowledge and embrace our true selves. It's an internal exploration, a personal conversation we have with our identity. It's about understanding who we are without external expectations, and finding comfort in that space. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝘁: Swinging open the door to share our authentic selves with others. It's a brave step, a declaration of our truth. Coming out is not a one-time event; it's a continuous process, choosing when, how, and to whom we reveal the layers of our identity. Whether you're coming in, coming out, or navigating both, remember: Your journey is valid, your timing is yours, and your story is uniquely yours to tell. 🌈💖 If you're seeking support or a safe space to explore your LGBTQ+ journey, individual therapy can provide understanding and empowerment. Feel free to reach out whenever you're ready. #ComingIn #ComingOut #LGBTQJourney #RadiantTherapy

Hear from Ryan Roberts this Pride Month, a driving force behind Alchemy's Community and Allies initiative. As we strive to create a more equitable workplace, Ryan's words resonate as a call to action for promoting inclusivity and embracing diversity. "We decided to establish Alchemy Community & Allies for several compelling reasons," Ryan explains. "Firstly, to cultivate an environment where employees from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences feel safe, supported, and empowered. By bringing together colleagues from diverse cultures and perspectives, we can celebrate the unique contributions of each individual. To have a support network to serve as a platform for employees to connect, network and build supportive relationships. Moreover, Ryan underscores the pivotal role of advocacy in driving systemic change. "We aim to advocate for change and address unconscious bias by amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups and allies, to drive change and promote a more inclusive workplace culture, raise awareness of these issues, and promote accountability." Join us in fostering an inclusive culture that empowers every voice by continuing to raise awareness, providing platforms for visibility, and celebrating the invaluable diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. 🏳️🌈 #PrideMonth #PrideMonth2024 #AlchemyCommunityandAllies

A sense of confidence and play is an important part of queer joy 🏳️🌈. Whether its in or outside of the workplace, when we play, we occupy spaces and do activities that are engaging, meaningful, and safe for us. That's why its so heartening to see organizations that support LGBTQ+ folks' ability to show up joyfully and confidently for their chosen pursuits.     Here at NuWave, we love what 💼 Out & Equal is doing to facilitate education and events for inclusion and belonging in workplaces around the world. Feeling safe and included at work can be a catalyst for play. 📚Stanford University recently launched a new LGBTQ+ Executive Leadership Program to help LGBTQ+ executives cultivate their own leadership styles while building inclusive workplaces.    There are also a number of groups that support queer adults and the next generation with safe spaces for play and expression:     🏕️ Camp Brave Trails runs an incredible camp for LGBTQ+ youth every summer.      🎭 The National Queer Theater elevates queer actors and storytellers of all ages through plays, festivals, and education.     ⚽ Athlete Ally provides resources, awards, and advocacy to end homophobia and transphobia and create more inclusion in sports.     There are so many different ways to be playful at work or in recreation and, thankfully, the list of organizations who are facilitating this specifically for LGBTQ+ folks seems to be ever-growing.      #internationaldayofplay #queerjoy #executiveeducation #lgbtq #pridemonth

Happy Pride Month from SPECTRAFORCE 🌈 This month, we're focusing on allyship and we want to share 5 ways you can be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community: - "Inviting In" - Instead of expecting someone to "come out" to you, try "inviting in"! Create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their identity. Ask yourself: "Am I creating a space where others feel welcome and valued?" - Have Conversations - Engage in open and respectful dialogue with LGBTQ+ individuals. Ask respectful questions, listen actively, and be honest about your own biases and limitations. - Be Accepting - Acceptance is key to being an ally! Treat everyone with kindness and compassion, regardless of their identity. - Have Humility - Being an ally isn't about being a hero or getting credit - it's about listening, learning, and supporting. Acknowledge your own biases and be willing to listen and grow. Remember, the focus should be on uplifting and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. - Take Action - Allyship requires action! Learn more about the issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community, confront biases and discrimination when you see it, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Support LGBTQ+ owned businesses, attend Pride events, and use your voice to speak up for justice and equality. By following these steps, we can create a more inclusive and accepting world for everyone! If you're looking for a workplace that values diversity and inclusion, consider joining our team! Follow us for more updates and fill out the form here https://lnkd.in/gXzfg-zJ to explore employment opportunities. #SPECTRAFORCE #PrideMonth #Allyship