VEIC’s Post

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!

Diversity is absolutely essential for developing strong teams, and high performing organisations that are robust, agile and innovative. Everybody should feel comfortable to be who they are in the workplace, and every workplace should make effort to ensure it is inclusive. Visibility is a key part of that.

The journey of the LGBTQ+ communities has been nothing short of remarkable. They are forging ahead to achieve their dreams and reshape the economic landscape.🌈 Enter 'Pink Money', the purchasing prowess of the LGBTQ+ community.💸 The LGBTQ+ community is here to stay, and their economic influence is painting the world a brighter shade of pink.🏳️🌈 Get ready to be amazed by the transformative power of pink money through this interesting article by Deputy Editor, Shreya Srikoti.

Pride Month is a celebration of LGBTQ2+ pride, rights, and culture, so to ignore the unique ways IPV & GBV impacts these folks would be to invalidate their unique and nuanced experiences. Like many other marginalized groups, the statistics around GBV are startling and indicate that an intersectional approach needs to be taken in the work to eradicate violence within this community - starting by an honest look at the stats. Only then can we start to address why these numbers are the way they are, and what can be done to protect LGBTQ2+ folks, support LGBTQ2+ survivors, and prevent GBV in the LGBTQ2+ community!

Today marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. Let's stand united in our commitment to supporting LGBTQ2S+ rights and creating a society that embraces diversity, safety, and inclusivity for all. United Way Central Alberta celebrates the diverse individuals who shape our communities and is committed to working with LGBTQ2S+ communities to ensure their safety and well-being. #InternationalDayAgainstHomophobiaBiphobiaAndTransphobia2024

What do #diversity and #inclusion have to do with business? 🌈 Besides being a crucial social responsibility, inclusive workplaces benefit from a variety of viewpoints, leading to more informed decisions and a better understanding of diverse customer needs. 🎯 A bonus: When people feel included, they are more engaged, motivated, and loyal. Sounds like a win-win to me! How do you see diversity and inclusion reflected in your workplace? ✨

🌈 Pride Month! 🌈 As we enter week #2 of Pride Month, I wanted to share some ways we can show our support and celebrate! 1.    Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding the history and significance of Pride is crucial. Take time to learn about key milestones in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, such as the Stonewall Riots of 1969, and educate others to foster a more inclusive society. 2.    Create Inclusive Spaces: Whether at work or in your community, strive to create environments where everyone feels safe and respected. Implement policies that support diversity and inclusion and ensure that LGBTQ+ voices are heard and valued. 3.    Attend Pride Events: Many cities host parades, workshops, and other events during Pride Month. Participating in these events is a great way to show solidarity and celebrate the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community. 4.    Share Your Support: Use social media platforms to show your support for Pride Month. Share educational resources, inspirational stories, and messages of solidarity to spread awareness and encourage others to do the same. Happy Pride Month! 🏳️🌈

Happy Pride Month!! As a labor union that represents over 1,500 members, SLOCEA is committed to supporting & advocating for each of them, including those who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. To learn more about the labor movement’s connection to the LGBTQ+ community, check out the article on our blog written by SLOCEA labor rep, Brooke Daphne!

What is Straight For Equality? Straight for Equality (S4E) is an outreach and education program by PFLAG National that helps allies understand their role in supporting and advocating for LGBTQ+ people. It's especially helpful for folks who may not have LGBTQ+ loved ones, but want to learn about how they can become an ally in the community or workplace. Learn more at straightforequality.org

Why Do Brands Only Show Their True Colors in June? 🌈 As it is Pride Month, I have been reflecting on the influx of rainbow logos and celebratory posts from brands across all industries. It is heartening to see so much support for the LGBTQ+ community, but it also raises an important question: Why do these expressions of solidarity often disappear once July begins? True allyship means standing by the LGBTQ+ community year-round, not just when it is trending. It is about ensuring inclusive policies, supporting LGBTQ+ employees and customers, and fostering a culture where everyone feels safe and valued every single day. So, as we bid farewell to another Pride Month, let's challenge ourselves and the brands we support to keep the spirit of Pride alive all year. 🌟 #PrideMonth #LGBTQAllyship #InclusiveWorkplaces #YearRoundSupport #TrueColors