June is a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, a time to honour the history, resilience, and diversity of this community. But as the rainbow flags come down and the confetti settles at the end of this year’s Pride Month, it’s crucial to remember that the need for LGBTQ+ support and inclusion doesn’t end here.
During Pride, it can feel like some organisations suddenly adopt rainbow logos and host one-off events, without putting in the real work of meaningful, year-round inclusion and support for the LGBTQ+ community. This surface-level allyship, without tangible actions and long-term commitments, can come across as hollow and even exploitative. As an LGBTQ+ individual myself, I’ve experienced that disappointment firsthand.
It’s frustrating when companies appear to jump on the Pride bandwagon solely for branding or marketing purposes, without genuinely advocating for LGBTQ+ rights or creating safe, welcoming spaces for their LGBTQ+ employees. What we truly need are organisations that go beyond the pink washing and are willing to have difficult conversations, educate their workforce, update policies and actively uplift LGBTQ+ people all year long. Otherwise all the pride parades and social media posts in June can start to feel like empty gestures that do little to address the very real challenges and inequities that LGBTQ+ people face, both in and out of the workplace.
I think it’s important for organisations to remember that Pride is not just a marketing opportunity – it’s a celebration of hard-won rights and a continued fight for full equality and acceptance. If organisations want to authentically show up for the LGBTQ+ community, they need to go beyond the surface-level trappings of Pride and demonstrate a genuine long term commitment to create truly inclusive environments.
At Zest Psychology, there’s a few of us who identify as LGBTQ. Together we know from a combination of our lived experiences and the evidence available to us, that fostering a workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves is essential for both employee well-being and organisational success.
Here’s why a year-round commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion is so important:
1. Well-being and Mental Health: Research consistently shows that LGBTQ+ individuals who experience discrimination or a lack of support are at higher risk for mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. A truly inclusive workplace can help reduce these risks and promote positive mental health for all employees.
2. Productivity and Engagement: When employees feel safe and included, they’re more likely to be engaged in their work, collaborate effectively, and contribute their best ideas. An inclusive environment can boost productivity and innovation across the board.
3. Talent Attraction and Retention: In today’s competitive job market, companies that prioritise diversity and inclusion are more attractive to top talent. Demonstrating a genuine commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion can help you attract and retain the best employees.
4. Company Reputation: Building a reputation for being an inclusive and equitable employer can enhance your company’s brand image and attract customers and clients who share your values.
What Year-Round LGBTQ+ Inclusion Looks Like:
Inclusive Policies: Go beyond legal compliance and create policies that specifically address LGBTQ+ needs, such as anti-discrimination protections or even transgender-inclusive healthcare benefits. Consider separating out your policies to LGBPQ and TNBI
Training and Education: Offer ongoing training for employees and managers on LGBTQ+ issues, terminology, and creating a welcoming environment.
Employee Network Groups (ENGs): Support or establish LGBTQ+ ERGs where employees can connect, share experiences, and advocate for their needs.
Community Engagement: Partner with LGBTQ+ organisations, especially to avoid burdening your LGBTQ+ staff burdening training or other responsibilities. participate in events that support the community.
Allyship: Encourage employees to be active allies to their LGBTQ+ colleagues by listening, learning, and speaking up against discrimination (check out our infographic for more information!).
When LGBTQ+ employees see their organisations making a genuine effort to create a more inclusive environment, it sends a powerful message. It tells them that they are valued, that their voices matter, and that they belong. Remember, the work of inclusion doesn’t end on June 30th. Rather, June should be about inspiring the ongoing journey that requires commitment, empathy, and a willingness to learn and grow together.