EarnIn’s Post

“When’s straight pride? 😡” “Why do we need this!?” “Always shoving it in people’s faces 🙄” These are just some of the comments I’ve seen on social media this pride month, and they come up every year. So, let’s talk about it. I am illegal in 64 countries, and I could be sentenced to the death penalty in 12 of those countries. That is not okay. That is not equality. But we don’t have to look far from home to find adversity for LGBTQ+ people, just look around you. In the 70s and 80s, gay people were only acceptable if they didn’t say gay and were funny, and this has trickled down into culture today. If you’re gay, you must be funny, right? This perception is visible in the workplace, where gay men and trans people in particular aren’t taken seriously. ‘You’re gay and funny, but you can’t be a leader’. Every day we have to shout to be heard, struggle to be taken seriously, and prove ourselves repeatedly to show we’re people and we’re good at what we do. Sometimes, the biggest challenge is men. We’re a threat to their masculinity, their perception of what it means to be a man, and what society has told them a man is. I can’t count the number of times I’ve had dismissive looks and words from men in my career who don’t think I deserve to have a perspective or input like I’m not worthy. Now, don’t confuse my meaning, I know not all men are like this and fortunately, the majority have the intelligence and respect to be a good colleague. The workplace for an LGBTQ+ person can be a constant uphill battle, and it shouldn’t be like this. I and the people before me have fought for our place at the table, so I don’t let people threaten my existence, stop me from being successful or define who I am. My current workplace is inclusive and my colleagues are respectful, but that hasn’t always been the case. If you want to learn one thing this pride month, it's this: be a better ally at work by empowering and supporting your LGBTQ+ colleagues. We’re tired of fighting, and it’s time to see the success of our hard work. We have pride, a celebration of acceptance, inclusivity, and progress because we aren’t considered ‘normal’, we aren’t accepted, and we aren’t equal, yet. We have pride to make people sit up and pay attention. We have pride to make it clear that we are everywhere, and we aren’t going anywhere. At the end of the day, LGBTQ+ people are people. We won’t remember you for how you looked or what car you drove, but we’ll remember how you made us feel. Treat us how you want to be treated, and then we might have a reason for straight pride. #opinion #LGBTQplus #pride #PrideMonth 🏳️🌈

Seven years ago, I had a meeting with a UN colleague to discuss LGBTQ+ rights in Trinidad and Tobago. As I passionately recited facts and statistics, trying to make the case for why equality is everyone's responsibility, he stopped me mid-sentence and asked, "Kennedy, what do you really want from all this LGBTQ advocacy you're doing?" Taking a deep breath and looking him in the eye with steely determination, I responded, "What would make me feel most fulfilled? I want a Pride Parade in my own country." At that moment, a Pride Parade in Trinidad and Tobago felt like a distant dream. Yet, that dream never left me. Remarkably, just a year later, we were celebrating our very first Pride Parade, and making Pride an annual event became a reality. What I couldn’t have predicted was that I would find myself at the forefront of turning this dream into reality. I never planned to be at the forefront of this movement, nor did I seek out a leadership role. None of this was on my bucket list or part of my life goals. At the time, I was still in the closet, with much to lose. I adhered to the rules and was overly cautious. Yet, when it came to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and women’s rights, I refused to let silence or fear dictate my actions. I was determined not to let society’s rules and expectations limit my life or my achievements as an openly proud gay man. This commitment has always been my guiding principle, and it’s what I wanted for every LGBTQIA+ person in my country. Taking on a more visible leadership role during this year's Pride Month has been an emotional whirlwind. There have been moments of intense frustration and agony, but the special memories created throughout this past month have fueled my renewed energy and enthusiasm for the future. While I’m unsure what lies ahead, feeling hopeful is what truly matters. Now that Pride Month 2024 is in the history books, I want to share a message with every LGBTQIA+ person in Trinidad and Tobago. I understand that, despite our progress, the journey is still challenging, and even those who seem to have it all can carry past burdens and heartbreaks that make us question if change is truly possible. But change is happening. We celebrated Pride with a public parade in our nation’s streets, a testament to the progress we’ve made. Click the link below to continue reading: https://lnkd.in/eyZ7Pg9H

Reflecting on Pride Month: A Candid Perspective As June rolls in, I find myself compelled to address a topic I've rarely discussed publicly despite being a prominent feature of the societal landscape. Many of you know that I'm gay and that LA is a gay-owned firm. Unlike my peers, I've never used my sexuality as a selling point or a plea for sympathy. Pride Month, or rather the extended period it has become, often feels like a theatrical performance where businesses exploit the gay community for profit, treating it much like a trendy accessory. This commercialization of gay identity is a far cry from the authentic struggles and victories of the Gay rights movement. The early 2000s marked a time in Canada when the rights movement aimed to normalize sexuality to the point of it being mundane. Yet, here we are, still caught up in claiming some existential crisis is just around the corner, portraying ourselves as victims. My experience in the corporate world has taught me that being gay involves navigating between both men and women, blending these aspects to foster a unique perspective, especially in management dominated by older men. This balance has aided my professional journey and enhanced my emotional intelligence, allowing me to connect deeply in a business context that often undervalues emotional expressions. However, I feel today's environment has mutated into a stage for toxic femininity, where the fetishization of gay men, using them as confidants while failing to respect their manhood, runs rampant. This, to me, feels like a new form of disrespect, compounded by a societal push to make us mascots of an endless parade for entertainment. Furthermore, the inclusivity that Pride once stood for seems overshadowed by a divisive and toxic atmosphere that stifles free speech and honest discussion. As a gay man, voicing divergent views on the current trajectory of "LGBTQ+" activism, particularly on transgender issues, labels us a transphobe. This is ironic and disheartening, considering the origins of this movement were rooted in the fight for freedom. The corporatization of Pride, with every product adorned with a rainbow, seems less like support and more like a perverse exploitation of our identities. This is not the legacy the brave activists of the past fought for, and it certainly isn't the future they envisioned. As we navigate the upcoming season of Pride, I challenge you to think critically about the narrative being sold. Is turning people's identities into a spectacle the right way to respect them? For me, pride's legacy is a reminder of the profound disconnect between the origins of this movement and its current trajectory. Many of you will feel uncomfortable saying anything, but know you are not alone. It's time to HEAL and move on to real issues that our society faces, especially in creating spaces for men's mental health to be discussed openly without demonisation, a conversation gay men can significantly contribute to.

As June comes to an end, I want to thank WACL (Women in Advertising & Communications Leadership ), American Tower, Liontrust Asset Management PLC, and RVU for choosing me to speak at your events this summer. It is so rewarding to meet new audiences and organisations who are curious about how they can drive inclusion for LGBT+ communities. I have spent the last two decades working with organisations who have, in different ways, been finding ways to ensure that their LGBT+ staff belong and are able to be themselves. In my experience, the best organisations understand the intrinsic connection between inclusion and effectiveness. They see that if staff, volunteers and beneficiaries feel a strong sense of belonging, genuinely experience mutual trust and respect, and know they are valued for their perspectives, then those people will give more and gain more from the organisation. The very best organisations look at their strategy and identify how a mix of minds will drive up performance and enable them to deliver. For those with beneficiaries and members, using the lens of the strategy can reveal how many people are missing out or are being left behind because LGBT+ people need to know they belong, and they are welcome. This won’t be presumed from a generic policy written by someone else, or from the mandatory EDI essentials on-line training course. LGBT+ staff won’t interpret silence as affirmation, particularly these days. LGBT+ staff need to know they can be themselves, that they don’t have to keep secrets if they don’t want to, and that organisations want to hear from them. Pride Events help show the community that they do belong. So for all those of you who’ve held pride events this June, thank you. You can find a longer blog on this here: https://lnkd.in/ecVwnFdr #pridemonth #inclusiveleadership #allyship #culture 

The Importance of Showing Support for Pride June is a special month. It’s when cities and communities around the world light up with vibrant colors, celebrating Pride Month. While Pride is a time for the LGBTQ+ community to honor their history and achievements, it’s also an invitation for everyone to join in, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Here’s why it’s so important to show your support for Pride, even if you don’t identify as LGBTQ+ Think about how it feels to be accepted for who you are. That’s what showing up for Pride can do for someone in the LGBTQ+ community. It’s about creating a world where everyone feels welcome and valued. When we stand together in support, we send a powerful message that diversity is something to be celebrated, not feared. Discrimination is still a harsh reality for many in the LGBTQ+ community. By supporting Pride, you’re taking a stand against prejudice and injustice. Your presence can help challenge discriminatory attitudes and behaviors, making it clear that equality and respect are fundamental values we should all uphold. Imagine facing rejection just for being yourself. Many LGBTQ+ individuals deal with this daily, which can take a toll on their mental health. Your support can make a difference. Knowing that allies are there for them can boost their sense of belonging and emotional well-being. It shows that they are not alone in their journey. Safe spaces are crucial for the LGBTQ+ community to express themselves freely. By participating in Pride events, you help create and expand these spaces. Your support signals that there are allies everywhere, encouraging others to stand up for inclusivity in their own circles. Together, we can build a safer and more understanding society. Pride is a fantastic opportunity to learn and grow. Engaging with the LGBTQ+ community allows you to hear their stories and understand their experiences better. This knowledge helps to challenge any misconceptions or stereotypes you might have, making you a more informed and empathetic ally. Supporting Pride isn’t just a one-month commitment; it’s about advocating for equality every day. Whether at work, at home, or in public, your efforts help to ensure that everyone is treated fairly. Your advocacy can lead to more inclusive policies and a more just society for everyone. When people from different backgrounds come together for a common cause, it strengthens the entire community. Showing your support for Pride helps build a more unified and resilient community. It fosters connections and understanding across different groups, making our society stronger and more cohesive. Pride is more than a celebration; it’s a call to action. By supporting Pride, you’re helping to create a world where everyone can live authentically and without fear. This June, let’s stand in solidarity and show that love and acceptance are for everyone. Together, we can make a real difference and continue the journey! #pride

This Pride Month, I want to talk about why Pride is as crucial today as it was on June 28th, 1970. Some see Pride as an unnecessary performative display; others believe LGBTQ+ experiences should stay private and out of sight; still others become enraged when asked to use different specific pronouns. Pride represents a crucial and ongoing fight for equality. Below is a personal story from last month. Two Clarity employees and I were exhibitors at an IT audit conference in Phoenix. After the first day of the event wrapped, I joined my team for drinks in the hotel lobby. We ordered our drinks and sat down, where we struck up a conversation with a couple of guys from another exhibitor. Initially, it seemed friendly enough; in fact, it turned out we had some mutual connections, including a long-time family friend. However, the mood of one of the exhibitors abruptly shifted when my teammate corrected him on my pronouns (she/her). Once people got up to refresh their drinks, he became fixated on my transition and started asking a barrage of intrusive questions. He must have deemed my responses unfulfilling, and his tone turned hostile. He started the hostility by repeating, "Do you love yourself? How could you love yourself if you're like that?" The encounter culminated with the venomous statement, "If your parents knew, they wouldn't love you." My encounter with this exhibitor wasn't just awkward. It was an incredibly hurtful 15 minutes that concluded with being told I was not worthy of love. Outside of the blatant bigotry, what struck me most was the setting. We weren't in a skeezy bar with belligerent drunks. It was a professional space filled with friends, colleagues, and potential clients. My story is just one among a sea of seemingly endless experiences that the LGBTQ+ community faces daily, and there is no end in sight. Unfortunately, many within the LGBTQ+ community do not have a voice to speak out. This is why Pride is crucial: It creates a single voice that has the power to speak up and speak out. Pride is about celebrating our identities, but it's also about creating a world where everyone feels safe and respected. A world where a simple drink with colleagues isn't faced with prejudice. A world where the threat of discriminatory laws aren't looming over us. It's why organizations like The Trevor Project and the Human Rights Campaign are so crucial. They provide vital support and resources for those facing discrimination and struggling with their identity. At Clarity Security, we stand firm in our support for the LGBTQ+ community. My story reflects the reality many face and explains why Pride isn't just about celebration but about creating a more inclusive world. To the LGBTQ+ community, stay strong. To our allies, thank you for your support. Happy #Pride. 🏳️🌈

The "iceberg" of organisational Allyship  During Pride Month, allyship has been top of my mind, especially as I am about to take on institutional leadership of Hallam’s EEDI agenda. Joining our LGBTQ+ communities at the first Kelham Pride march at the start of June was a joyful thing to do. But allyship must go deeper than this especially in the current context in the UK of our lowest ever ILGA-Europe score for LGBTQ+ rights and equality, no doubt related in part to the lack of progress on banning conversion therapy. More broadly, persistent systemic inequalities and a rise in hate crime against people across all protected characteristics means that it is more important than ever for us all to be determined allies. A wonderful colleague of mine (yes you Julie Hulme!) has embedded in her email signature “ally is a verb not a noun” and this impacted me greatly - allyship should be active, and consistent. It should be about being an active bystander and challenging or reporting inappropriate or threatening behaviour. It should also be about taking time to learn about and understand others’ experiences, perspectives and identities. I found a fantastic image online of “the iceberg of allyship” – the visible, above water aspects being the sometimes performative and relatively unimpactful activities – the true impact coming from the much larger, underwater element. It is these more “hidden” activities – the systematic and long-term approaches to allyship - that really make a difference to the lives of underrepresented groups in our communities. As the leader of a large organisation, I’ve been considering the concept of organisational allyship: how do we work in a systems-based way to dismantle barriers in order to collectively deliver inclusivity? What sits “below the waterline” and is truly capable of moving power to those whose voices may not be heard? Whilst I absolutely recognise that developing inclusive policies won’t, in itself, change people’s behaviours, the way we do this and engage our communities in collective, active allyship absolutely can. Like many of you, I have a responsibility as a leader to change not just myself but the organisation which I lead for the better.    Pride month is a great stimulus to consider all types of allyship. These conversations must continue, and part of being a good ally is being open to being reminded of this. So yes – attend events and go to marches. But also consider how you can contribute more “underwater”, and really make a long-term difference. PS Twiglet also enjoyed her very first Pride as you can see by the picture!

Celebrating LGBT History: A Daily Journey Beyond a Month When we think of LGBT History Month, we envision a period set aside to celebrate the journeys, victories, and sacrifices of the LGBT community. In my life, this recognition extends beyond the confines of a single month. It is a continuous practice, an intrinsic part of who I am, echoing the voices of friends still with us and those we have lost. My approach is a daily commitment, a constant affirmation of respect and acknowledgment. Each day presents a opportunity to pay homage to those who paved the way for the rights and freedoms enjoyed today. This can manifest in supporting LGBT colleagues, engaging in dialogues about diversity, or simply exhibiting empathy in everyday interactions. These moments are subtle yet powerful, embedded in the routine of day-to-day life. They range from offering support, reflecting on our shared history, to educating others about the value of inclusiveness. Every day is a new chapter in celebrating the human experiences, connecting deeply with the community and its past. The act of remembering plays a crucial role in my daily life. It is about more than just recollecting the past; it is about carrying forward the legacy of those who have shaped the LGBT community. This remembrance is a source of strength and inspiration. Every story of triumph and struggle, every memory of a friend who left an indelible mark on my life, feeds into a reservoir of motivation and resilience. In my life, these reflections shape how I interact with others and guide my decisions. They remind me of the importance of creating a space where everyone feels valued and heard. In meetings or conversations, the lessons learned from these histories inform my approach to leadership and collaboration. They encourage us to advocate for inclusivity and to lead with empathy. It informs my approach to workplace dynamics, fostering an environment of inclusivity and understanding. The essence of truly celebrating LGBT history lies not in confining it to a month but in integrating it into our daily lives. It is about transforming remembrance into action, ensuring that the struggles and victories of the past are not forgotten but are used as a beacon to guide our future. By doing so, we honour not just a community or a history, but the very notion of what it means to be human in its most diverse form. I encourage you to consider how you can incorporate this daily celebration into your own life. It does not require grand gestures; often, it is the smallest acts that carry the most weight. Whether it’s through advocacy, education, or simply by being a supportive presence, each of us has the power to make a difference. In celebrating LGBT history every day, we keep the flame of progress burning bright, ensuring that the voices of the past continue to echo into the future, shaping a world that is more inclusive, empathetic, and understanding.

This Pride Month, let's celebrate the power of LGBTQ+ visibility and its transformative impact on individuals and society. Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, stands as a beacon of inclusion, living his truth as a gay man while leading one of the world's most influential companies. Tim Cook's story is more than just personal; it sends a powerful message: being LGBTQ+ doesn't hinder success, and diversity can be a strength. His visibility has a ripple effect, creating positive change in these ways: ▪ Normalizing LGBTQ+ Identities: In a world that can often be prejudiced, Tim Cook's openness combats stereotypes. Younger LGBTQ+ generations see him thriving and realize they too can achieve leadership positions, regardless of their sexual orientation. - For instance, imagine a young gay man, hesitant about pursuing a career in business. Seeing Tim Cook's success story can be a game-changer. It can give him the confidence to believe in himself and his abilities, shattering limiting beliefs and fueling his ambition. This visibility plays a crucial role in normalizing LGBTQ+ identities and paving the way for future generations. ▪ Boosting Confidence: Representation matters. When LGBTQ+ individuals see someone like Tim Cook excelling at the highest levels, it inspires them to embrace their identities with greater confidence. They see a reflection of their own potential and are empowered to reach for their dreams. - Consider an LGBTQ+ employee who might feel invisible or unheard in their workplace. Tim Cook's story can be a source of encouragement, motivating them to be more open about their identity and advocate for a more inclusive work environment. This newfound confidence can empower them to break down barriers and contribute their unique talents to their fullest potential. ▪ Creating a More Inclusive Environment: Tim Cook's presence as an openly gay CEO sends a clear message: inclusion is valued at Apple. This extends beyond the company, creating a ripple effect across the business world. It demonstrates that LGBTQ+ individuals are welcome and can thrive in leadership roles. - Tim Cook's story is just one powerful example. There are countless LGBTQ+ leaders and public figures who are making a positive impact on visibility and inclusion. By celebrating these stories, we can create a world where everyone feels empowered to be themselves and reach their full potential. Furthermore, Tim Cook's story can offer a sense of reassurance and hope for: ▪ A parent of an LGBTQ+ child: Witnessing Tim Cook's success can alleviate anxieties and provide a powerful message of possibility. It shows that their child's sexual orientation doesn't limit their potential, and they can achieve their dreams regardless of societal barriers. How can we further champion LGBTQ+ visibility in the workplace? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! #DiversityandInclusion #LGBTQintheWorkplace

Pride Month June 2024 🌈 - By John Sims LGBTQ+  Pride Month, is a month dedicated to celebration and commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender pride. Pride Month began after the Stonewall riots, a series of gay liberation protests in New York City in 1968.  Being born in 1960, I come from a generation where the importance of diversity and inclusion was not widely recognised. I started my working life in Lloyd’s in 1978. From memory there were only two female brokers and virtually no-one of colour. I guess that was just the way it was back then, shame on us all. Society was still diverse in the '60s and '70s, even if policies and ideas weren't inclusive or didn't foster diversity in every workplace and industry. There have always been diverse groups in society, it's more a question of inclusion and discrimination that's shifted in recent decades. I was talking to my amazing sons, Jamie and Charlie last week (I also have an amazing daughter in Amber!) and they asked of all of the things that had changed in my lifetime, what stood out the most. You’d have to say technology given where we were, an abacus to calculate rates (not quite but not far from the truth) to where we are with AI and everything else that now dominates our lives. How did we survive without Smart Phones? But in terms of us as a society to me the biggest change has been the acceptance and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community. But boy it's been a slog and in many respects it still is. The LGBTQ+ community has organised and campaigned over many years, demanding equality, dignity, and the freedom to live their lives authentically. As far as inclusion goes, we still have a long way to go. And some, in politics and media and elsewhere, seem to want to turn the clock back - as can be seen in attacks on transgender rights. I hate to say this but the insurance industry, as much as I love it, still lags way behind. Thankfully, it seems that as an industry we are trying to make up lost ground. Today, a Progress Pride Flag flies in front of Lloyds Building. The ABI have been quoted as saying “The ABI and its members believe that it is wrong for people to be disadvantaged because of their age, sex, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, race, sexual orientation, religion, a disability or because of their social background, health or family circumstances.” Even the FCA recognise the challenge we face and said recently “At the FCA, we are committed as a regulator to taking action on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion because progress on making financial services, including the insurance industry, representative of the country and communities it serves remains at best uneven, and at worst, stagnant. “ Our industry is better than this, we should all take responsibility for being completely inclusive.  Let’s start by celebrating Pride Month and everything it stands for. #pride #inclusion #LGBTQ+ #insurance Photo by James A. Molnar on Unsplash