Benesch’s Post

Yesterday, we celebrated #NationalComingOutDay in a beautiful way with a LinkedIn Live featuring RaShawn Hawkins, SHRM-CP of the Human Rights Campaign. But as I noted in noted in my newsletter, coming out is not limited to one day. In fact, for many—myself included—it’s a moment that happens countless times throughout your life and career. In honor of that, I wanted to shoutout a few of my favorite LGBTQ creators over the next few days who are bringing #QueerJoy and inclusivity to LinkedIn every day. Today, I’d like to introduce you all to Imara Jones. Imara’s work has won Emmy and Peabody Awards. She is the creator of TransLash Media, a cross-platform, non-profit journalism and narrative organization, which produces content to shift the current culture of hostility towards transgender people in the US. And Imara was even named by Time Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People on the planet in 2023. Here’s what she has to say about coming out: “More than anything, coming out has nothing to do with the external. It starts inside. It’s about the ability for us to look into the mirror and be honest about who we are, as well as what we want. Once we can do that everything else takes care of itself. We get the best of people when we give them the ability to be themselves and to deploy their talents. Creating space for LGBTQ [folks] is a smart business decision because it means your organization will reap the benefits from your most resilient, innovative, and dedicated employees.” I couldn’t agree more. How do YOU view coming out? And what voices on LinkedIn do you look to when it comes to LGBTQ representation? 

In our continued celebration of Black History Month and LGBTQ History Month, today we shine a spotlight on Aaron Philip, a trailblazing transgender model who has redefined beauty standards and #inclusivity in the fashion industry. As the first Black, transgender, and disabled model to be signed to a major modelling agency, Aaron's ground-breaking career challenges traditional norms and paves the way for greater #representation and #diversity on the runway and in fashion media. Aaron Philip's journey into the fashion industry is not just a personal triumph but a monumental step forward for representation. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Aaron has used her platform to advocate for visibility and inclusivity, highlighting the often overlooked intersection of disability with race and gender identity in fashion and beyond. Her presence in high-profile campaigns and runways serves as a powerful statement that beauty comes in all forms and that the fashion industry must embrace and celebrate diversity in all its dimensions. Beyond her modelling work, Aaron is a vocal advocate for the #LGBTQ community, using her voice and visibility to push for acceptance, rights, and equality. She challenges societal perceptions of beauty, ability, and identity, inspiring countless individuals who see themselves reflected in her success. Aaron's advocacy extends to social media, where she engages with a global audience on issues of accessibility, transgender rights, and racial justice, further amplifying her impact. Aaron Philip's influence transcends her modelling career; she is a symbol of change in an industry and society that are slowly recognizing the value and necessity of diversity. Her achievements illuminate the possibilities that arise when barriers are broken down, and doors are opened for those who follow in her footsteps. As we honour the contributions of Black and LGBTQ pioneers this month, let’s celebrate Aaron Philip's remarkable journey and the doors she has opened for greater inclusivity in fashion and beyond. Her story is a testament to the power of #resilience, visibility, and #advocacy in challenging and transforming entrenched norms. Aaron Philip inspires us to continue advocating for a world where everyone can see themselves represented and celebrated. #blackhistorymonth #lgbtqhistorymonth

🏳️🌈 Pride Month is almost here, and with it, the usual tokenistic rituals. Get ready to see company logos with rainbow flags and posts showcasing inclusivity.  But true progress demands more than a fleeting moment of symbolism. It whispers of authenticity, action, and a commitment that extends far beyond June. So, here's a short guide on how brands and companies can embrace allyship and genuinely overcome tokenism and rainbow-washing? 🧳 Diversity from the Inside Out: Go deeper than a headcount. Honestly assess gender representation throughout your company's history. What concrete steps are you taking to increase LGBTQIA representation at all levels? Here's a crucial question: Is the team crafting these initiatives diverse itself? Set clear goals for representation and share publicly to demonstrate your commitment. 🗓️ Year Round Advocacy: Pride is a celebration, but allyship is a commitment. Be consistent with your advocacy and DEIBJ efforts, and don't limit them to just Pride Month. Amplify queer voices throughout the year by featuring them in blog posts, webinars, and at industry events. Let them share their expertise on a variety of topics, not just lived queer experiences. 🙌🏽 Action Speaks Louder Than Logos: Being a true ally means sending a clear signal that you're anti-hate and fully support the LGBTQIA community. Don't back down out of fear of controversy. Any campaigns you have should be centered around the authentic lived experiences and narratives of the queer community, not a heteronormative imagination or idealization. Too often I've seen a viral campaign, instead of human-centred storytelling. 🫱🏽🫲🏼 Partnerships for Progress: Highlight your work with LGBTQIA organizations, policymakers & activists on meaningful gender justice impact. 💰 Fair Compensation Matters: When featuring LGBTQIA creators, influencers and other voices, ensure fair compensation for their time and expertise. 🌈 Representation Matters: Are the queer voices you're including representative of the entire LGBTQIA spectrum? Usually, gay men and trans women are more often represented compared to other gender spectrums. Have you seen this kind of tokenism and rainbow-washing? What are some other ways brands can be more genuine allies to queer community year-round? #PrideMonth #Pride #LGBTQIA #DEIBJ

New Post: UMI’s Love Letter to the LGBTQ  Community - https://lnkd.in/g-ntqby9 - This Pride Month, Billboard asked artists to write a series of love letters to their LGBTQ fans, highlighting what the community means to them as people and as artists. Below, R&B sensation UMI shares her coming out story, and thanks the community for “being my family.” My first interactions with the LGBTQ community were with friends I made in high school. It wasn’t a conscious recognition of our identities; they were simply my friends. Through them, I learned a lot about freedom of expression. Related Love Letters to the LGBTQ Community: Read the Notes From MUNA, Joy Oladokun & More 06/01/2024 I’ve since been more connected with becoming a role model. My biggest intention is to create art that people of all identities can relate to and feel seen through. I make art for the soul, for our universal feelings. We all love, we all have desire, we all have heart break. I’ve always had a strong desire to provide a safe space through my music and shows for people to be whoever they want to be. I attract a crowd of people who love each other with such deep openness – even with strangers. I love that my shows are full of representation … I think it’s a reflection of the love within me. In the face of increasing political attacks, approaching life through a bird’s eye view reminds me of our ongoing evolution. Just a few years ago, the legalization of gay marriage marked a significant milestone — I was in high school when it happened and I wrote my friend a letter about it. We are still at the beginning of our story. It’s easy to get sad or anxious about the world when approaching things in a finite way. I try my best to see every problem we face not through fear but as an area of growth and expansion happening before me. The problem is proof that the solution must exist and will come. That is the creative process, that is evolution. To my queer and trans family, friends, and fans, I LOVE YOU! You are loved and accepted always. Your unique presence in this world is appreciated — and my music is always a place to come as you are. Please don’t dim your light. You are here for a reason and are expanding people’s minds and hearts into its true size. So keep being you — your presence is making the world a better, more beautiful place. I feel it 🙂 Love,UMI - #news #business #world -------------------------------------------------- Download: Stupid Simple CMS - https://lnkd.in/g4y9XFgR -------------------------------------------------- or download at SourceForge - https://lnkd.in/dkmjBxiR

I'm snagging this from my own personal accounts to share here. Last week, I was able to attend Northwestern Mutual's first Together With Pride event. We had attendees from field staff and advisors, as well as home office employees and executive leadership. It was fantastic. While we had great keynote speakers, some of whom are in the attached pictures, the biggest takeaway for me was spending time with other allies and people in the #LGBTQ community to learn about triumphs and tribulations. It was fantastic to see what I think of as "in-house celebrities" those people always on the main stage talking about the company and outlook, sharing vulnerably their position and path as an ally. Admitting they didn't always stand up for those they should have, but that they are making progress and the company is with us to create change and inclusivity. That was on the positive end of things learned (also positive, LGBTQ superpowers - message me to learn more :) ). On the not-so-positive side, a lot of us have dealt with a lot of pushback on local levels as we try to facilitate change and inclusivity. Not pictured, but worth mentioning, is that there was a scroll of top 10 in various production categories for people identifying as part of the LGBTQ community. In every category there was at least 1 person who chose to remain anonymous, only identified by their geographical region, for fear of being outted in their local office and what that could mean. In 2023. We're making progress, but there is still a long way to go. And thankfully, our company realizes there is a long road ahead. So, returning to east Tennessee, I set some goals for the coming year. Not only will I continue to be an outspoken ally and try to work with as many people in the LGBTQ community as I can, but I will also do my best to introduce more of them to this business. If you know someone in the LGBTQ community who needs a safe place to talk all things money, send them my way! If you know someone in the LGBTQ community who is looking for a career change and is open to learning more about our roles, send them my way! It's not an easy path, but we certainly need more representation. Thanks to our home office team for putting on such a great event. I can't wait until next year!

How is your Pride Month campaign going? 🏳️🌈 As it's almost the end of June, I might be a bit late, but still, I'm thrilled to share a post dedicated to Pride Month - a time when spreading awareness about the LGBTQ community is at its peak. But is it really? Sadly, most companies are limited to adding rainbow symbols to their campaign visuals. Did you notice that? If your goal is to show genuine support and authentically connect with the queer community, our latest article is just for you. Learn how to find meaningful ways to communicate with your LGBTQ audience by clicking the link to the article 👇

Super Excited to be Featured in Author Breakthrough Magazine! Plus... June’s issue is chock-full of fun and informative articles! In celebration of Pride month, Kevin Jones wants to know if you’re tired of the limitations and negative connotations associated with the term "openly gay." It's time to retire this outdated label and simply embrace being gay. Let's move beyond the need for special acknowledgment or bravery in living our authentic lives. Instead of categorizing individuals as “openly gay” or “closeted,” let's celebrate the rich diversity of the LGBTQ community without labels or qualifiers. Join us in creating a more inclusive and accepting society for all. Get ready to make your brand and business as exciting and fun as the summer season with these insightful articles. Jill Lublin and Richard Kaye invite you to discover how to infuse joy, relaxation, and a sense of freedom into your publicity to resonate with your audience. Learn the secrets to creating a splash with your brand message, even during a season not typically associated with business. Uncover how to showcase your unique business personality, make lasting connections in a casual, friendly manner, and ignite collaborations that set off fireworks in the media.  Embrace the timeless methods of publicity while staying ahead of the trends to bring more heat to your brand. Let's work together to create some summer magic and make your business shine bright this season! Parchelle Tashi includes an AI update to build your platform. Speaking of platform, Juliet Clark has some tips to hone your platform skills. Plenty of time as the summer begins to sit out in the sun and read. Get your copy here: https://lnkd.in/eyukZ_Wc

We are thrilled to invite you to join us at Revry’s 2nd annual IAB NewFront presentation, an exclusive event for brand marketers and media buyers for May 1st, 12:10 – 12:20 PM ET, at the IAB Main Stage at Convene on Liberty Street in New York City. This year, we are proud to once again be the only #LGBTQ owned and targeted media company at #NewFronts2024. Get ready for an afternoon filled with cabaret-themed entertainment that celebrates the indomitable spirit of the queer community. Hosted by our co-founder and CEO Damian Pelliccione, this event will be a musical performance featuring notable stars Carmen Carrera, Dashaun Wesley, and the legendary drag king Murray Hill. 🌟 We’re not just putting on a show; we’re setting the stage for deeper connections between brands and the rich tapestry of queer culture highlighting our new and exclusive programming, including the world’s first drag king competition series "King of Drag", and updates on the beloved "Drag Latina" and "Pride Ball". 🌈 Additionally, discover PrismRiot™, our unique LGBTQ #adnetwork. Learn how we’re expanding our reach across 3,000 #FAST channels and making impactful connections through culturally relevant advertising. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking event that promises to innovate how brands engage with LGBTQ audiences. And if we see, we will tell you about the after party! #Revry #NewFronts2024 #QueerMedia #InclusiveAdvertising #LGBTQVisibility #DigitalMedia #Cabaret #InnovationInMedia #MediaBuying #iabnewfronts2024

HI LGBTQs! Some of you may remember last year during pride, I spent a month promoting small businesses owned by LGBTQ individuals in Baltimore and Philadelphia for free! Last year, it was my honest "flames from the side of my face" reaction to the rainbow washing and how viral the Target story was being covered everywhere. Well, I'M GONNA DO IT AGAIN! I'm seeking LGBTQ small business owners in Baltimore and Philadelphia to be featured in my efforts during the month of June. I'd like to get new businesses this year compared to last year, and I'd like to focus on businesses that have physical products or experiences that the general public can purchase or consume :-) I know it's early, but, BB's got to compile the information, write a press release, and think about a PR plan! So, if you are reading this, here's the deal: If you are an LGBTQ small business owner in Philly or Baltimore who sells tangible products or services or experiences, and are interested, please email me at [email protected]. Tell me about who you are, link to your website, send a bio, and tell me about your business. Photos of your product would also be super great, plus a link for the public to check out your stuff would be super. Of course, I cannot include every single person to reaches out to me, but I'd like to feature as many as I can!