Pride month is here in Canada - show your support!
Is it that time of the year already?
Yes! Pride month is full swing in Canada cumulating here in Toronto with the usual parade and high festivities in the last week of June.
This year’s theme is ‘Here, There and Everywhere’- a Pride that is equal part protest and party. It’s been a long journey getting this far for the LBGT community, being more specific the LGBTQQIP2SA community (a combination of letters that represent the identities of the queer community – Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Pansexual, Two-Spirited and Asexual), but there’s still a long way to go! Don’t be fooled by the appearance of acceptance, especially here in Toronto, discrimination continues to lurk around every corner.
Acknowledging and celebrating individuality and uniqueness in the workplace, in this case for LGBT people, makes better workplaces as everyone wants to be recognized, accepted and included. So how can you get involved this final week of Pride month? (if you haven’t’ already). Well below we’ve popped down just a few easy to do and innovative ways that can show your support. It doesn’t take much, but every little effort does get noticed and appreciated – believe me!
Virtual Meeting Backdrops
Zoom Calls, Google Meets…couldn’t they all do with a bit of spicing up with some rainbow flag colour backdrops? As Felicia says in the iconic film Priscilla, Queen of the Desert ‘There’s nothing like a new frock to brighten up your day!’ Get creative and show the world that you’re there for Pride month!
Get into the vibe
Got that same old playlist churning out the same old background songs in your workplace or shop? Stop that drear immediately and get creative with music that helps everyone celebrate Pride month! You’re really spoilt for choice you know. Ask Google, or even better just ask LGBTQ members of your team. From Madonna to Gaga and Boney M to Queen, there’s a plethora of wondrous tracks to get your toes tapping and everyone smiling.
Appreciate your LGBTQQIP2SA employees
The time is right to give those employees an extra special nod and appreciate what they bring to the workplace. Perhaps give them time to share their individual stories, what Pride means to them, and how they celebrate. It’s always surprising what you learn from someone if they have the opportunity to talk!
Let social media know you support Pride
Most businesses will have social media profiles, and what better place to show the world that you and your company support Pride. A simple post, or even a campaign for the week – perhaps the Pride logo, the rainbow flag, or even quotes from famous LGBT figures such as Harvey Milk, George Takei, James Baldwin, Martha P. Johnson. The list truly goes on, and there are wonderful, uplifting words to choose from.
Write a Blog article
Just like this one! Why not ask one (or group) of your LGBT staff to write a Blog for your website or social media profiles that shows the world what Pride means to them and why it’s so important. It’s a great opportunity to show your appreciation for the diverse workforce you have and the support you have for their community.
Ask your staff!
Of course, the best way to get great ideas is ask those directly involved! Your LGBT staff will no doubt have a whole host of ideas (some good, some bad, and some downright ugly!) on how your business can show its support for Pride. Asking and listening to your workforce, getting them involved, and appreciating who they are, only makes for a better workplace.
Go to Pride!
Oh, come on! It’s only one of the biggest Prides in North America and has a fantabulous feel and vibe. People travel the world over, year in year out, to attend Toronto Pride. There’s really plenty SO much to do and you’ll feel truly embraced by the joy of it all. Don’t forget of course to wear something completely fabulous!
