Each year, June 1^st– June 30^th, marks Pride month which celebrates the history and achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The month of June also remembers the 1969 Stonewall riots took place which are widely recognised as the beginning of change for LGBTQIA+ rights around the world.

Whilst a lot of progress has been made, there remains a need for issues affecting LGTQIA+ communities to stay at the forefront so that all workplaces cultivate inclusion and openness. In the recruitment sphere particularly, celebrating and raising awareness for Pride Month is an opportunity to continue discussions around DE&I and inclusivity.

We asked our team a few questions about nurturing an inclusive culture in the workplace.

Why is it important we take time to raise awareness for the LGBTQIA+ community throughout the year and especially during Pride month?

It all begins with awareness.  Throughout the years, the LGBTQI+ community simply was not recognized as a part of mainstream society.  Awareness opens the bridge to discussion, inclusion and change.  It has provided what we in the LGBTQI+ community have always known; we’re here and we deserve to feel safe, respected and have the same access to healthcare, education, employment, housing and social services.

What is the no.1 piece of advice you’d give to business leaders to help them cultivate an inclusive workplace?

Create a workplace that embraces authenticity.  The organization’s values should ensure they align with all employees and their vast walks of life and differences.  Ensure the workplace is an ally to the community in all facets.  Ensure the policies of the workplace protect all members of the LGBTQI+ and provide training.  Promote those that excel in their job and use their reach to promote rather than hold back their career opportunities.  Celebrate and create tolerance in the workplace.

In your view, what changes still need to be made to make sure the LGBTQIA+ community is supported and comfortable in the workplace?

Increase hiring of LGBTQ+ professionals in the workplace. Continue with training, policy change and cultural change in the workplace to achieve fundamental fairness and equality.  The community needs the space to identify themselves with different language that embraces them as part of society.  Be active in the local, regional, national, and global practices that support the LGBTQI+ community while allowing the business to grow within these verticals.