MSD’s Post

"When you're accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression." I love Pride Month. Our company has tried hard to be a place where everyone feels welcome and respected - it's in our core values and it turns out there are no qualifiers around the word "everyone". However, I'm always a little disappointed with some of the reactions I see on social media and otherwise around the time Pride Month. They are usually variations on the same theme - that because one does not understand it or see its value, it's dismissed as a waste of time, dollars, mind space, and ultimately seen as a sign that "we" (individuals, companies, the entire country, everybody) is becoming too woke (whatever that word even means anymore). It always smacks of fear and/or a fundamental misunderstanding to me when I see these kinds of reactions. My unsolicited advice to folks who feel this way is to step back, listen, and observe. Be curious. Sure Pride can be fun for a lot of people, but it also is a time to recognize that there's a large portion of our fellow humans who are marginalized for not being cis-het. If that wasn't the case, then there'd be no need for Pride as a "thing". We would just have people living their lives the way they want and loving who they want. But, as the data and the stories will show, there is still marginalization, bias, and prejudice evident for the LGBTQ+ community. So, if you're genuinely struggling with understanding the point or purpose of Pride, practice that active listening and let those who are actually impacted do the talking.

As June comes to a close, remember that celebrating diversity is about what you do all year, not just in one month. Check out this article on steps you can take to make your workplace more LGBTQ+ inclusive: https://lnkd.in/dbWdDej

Happy Pride Month 🙌 This month is about celebrating and honouring the LGBTQ+ community, and it is the perfect time for businesses to consider how to better prioritise diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our guest blog from Lucy Brown, founder of Diversity Dreaming, explores how to create an inclusive culture. Read it here: https://lnkd.in/ensRuTvw #HRadvice #Businessadvice #Smallbusiness

As a manager or business owner, supporting your LGBTQ+ employees is essential, but knowing where to begin can be challenging. We created a comprehensive guide to help you take the first steps towards creating amazing and inclusive workplaces for everyone. 🌈 Download our guide here: https://lnkd.in/ehhBWfks #LGBTQSupport #InclusiveWorkplaces #EqualityAtWork #EmployeeEmpowerment #DiversityandInclusion #BusinessLeadership

As we celebrate Pride Month, let us also urge employers to foster workplaces that are inclusive and affirming of LGBTQ+ employees. By implementing inclusive policies, providing resources for LGBTQ+ support, and cultivating a culture of acceptance, businesses can create environments where everyone can thrive authentically. Follow the link below to read the full article. https://lnkd.in/gXrHHnMP

Discover ways to foster inclusivity and trust in the workplace with our latest LinkedIn carousel, "How to Build Trust and Inclusion with your LGBTQ+ Colleagues." Learn practical tips for embracing diversity and ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone. Swipe through now!

🌈 This June, the SBTDC celebrates Pride Month by acknowledging the invaluable contributions of LGBTQ+ businesses in our communities. Per SBA's website, LGBTQ+ businesses contribute an estimated $1.7 trillion to America's economy, while also providing essential services and diversifying the workforce. From innovative start-ups to established enterprises, small businesses play a vital role in impacting both local and global economies, and the SBTDC is here to support those business ventures. Check out our website for more information on how we can make #YourBusinessBetter: https://sbtdc.org/ #SBTDC #PrideMonth #SmallBusiness #DiversityInBusiness #NCBusiness

Happy pride month! 🏳️🌈❤️ As we step into this vibrant month of celebration, I want to take a moment to reflect on the importance of visibility for queer individuals in the office space. As a proud lesbian and poly person, I understand the profound impact that being seen and acknowledged can have on an individual. It's about more than just being present; it's about creating a space where we can all feel safe, supported, and free to express our true selves without fear. While we celebrate Pride, we must also confront the rise in hate crimes in Norway (as well as the rest of the world), a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for true equality. Let's stand united against such hate and advocate for a society where love and acceptance prevail. Visibility matters. It paves the way for understanding, acceptance, and change. This Pride, let's commit to fostering an environment where every voice is heard, every identity is respected, and every person can thrive. Here's to celebrating our unique journeys and the collective progress we've made. #Pride #Inclusivity #Visibility

#PrideMonth has marked an excellent time for me to personally reflect on the actions I can take each day to foster an inclusive and supportive environment on my teams and with my clients. This article featuring ten of my colleagues is a helpful guide.

The latest issue of #BusinessIntersections focuses on 'Making An Impact.' We spotlight our first Director of Corporate Relations, Ryan C. Wilson, M.Ed., who oversees the Chamber’s Impact Partnerships. Read more about Ryan, the Chamber’s LGBTQ+ Workplace Alliance, and how the Chamber is helping Impact Partners recruit and retain LGBTQ+ employees. https://lnkd.in/g7yAYWGC #BusinessIntersections