LOFT’s Post

What questions should you ask employers to gauge whether a company's values align with your own? Let us help! 🤝 By knowing what to look for, you can narrow down which work environments support and protect the inclusivity of the LGBTQIA community. 🌈

#Pride is less than a month away, and once again the haters have ramped up their campaign against businesses such as Target from selling Pride merchandise, and one again some of my fellow members of the #LGBTQ community are complaining about these companies apparently backing down from the haters. My question to those members of the LGBTQ community who complain about #Target and other companies shifting their policies towards selling Pride merchandise is what should a publicly traded company do to protect it's employees and property from some Trumpanzee wearing a MAGA hat two sizes too small so it doesn't cover the point on their head from potentially causing harm to their employees or property? Do you really expect a Target employee who's paid minimum wage to stand up to and possibly take a punch or worse by some attention seeking knuckle dragger who's recording their stomping a styrofoam Pride display just so they can get some views on YouTube? The responsible answer to my question is "NO!" One solution to the problem which I am suggesting to the LGBTQ community who want to purchase Pride merchandise from a business which is trying to deal with haters while both protecting their employees and property, as well as showing some support by offering Pride merchandise is, if possible, purchase Pride merchandise from the business's web site if it is offered. To that end here is the URL to Pride merchandise being offered by Target: https://lnkd.in/g7a8AzCi You can also purchase Pride merchandise from local businesses as well, to show your support of their supporting Pride. While you may not be too happy with the solution I am proposing you can take some joy from the fact it is a potential solution the haters, and it helps keep hardworking employees safe from harm, and more importantly it sends a message to the haters that they can't stop Pride or keep the LGBTQ community from celebrating Pride. I may or may not get some negative remarks from other members of the LGBTQ (or trolls pretending to be members of the LGBTQ community 😉 ), but I take pride in offering a solution to keeping Pride safe, and to show the haters the LGBTQ community can out whit them without too much effort. PS: Also consider that complaining about companies like Target shifting their policies regarding Pride is also what the haters want. PPS: Hate is bad for #business. Stand up to it or find ways around it. #LGBTQCommunity #AcceptanceMatters #NoToHate

As we navigate #PrideMonth🏳️🌈 , it's crucial to understand the significance of events like Pride Month and commit to practicing authentic LGBTQIA allyship at work. Swipe across 👉 to understand how you can make a meaningful impact beyond just Pride Month. Read the full article here 👉 - https://lnkd.in/e9eVQbbC #Inclusiveworkplace #employeewellbeing #inclusionmatters

Marsha P. Johnson: 'No Pride for Some of Us Without Liberation for All of Us' 🏳️🌈 Marsha P. Johnson's powerful words serve as a reminder that true pride and progress come from lifting each other up, hand in hand. Inclusivity isn't just a buzzword; it's a commitment to a brighter future where every voice is heard and valued. As a coach, I wholeheartedly embrace this message. My workshops are meticulously designed to build bridges and foster understanding among diverse individuals. We delve deep into the unique experiences of neurodivergent and LGBTQIA communities, promoting acceptance and celebration of every individual's identity. In our collective journey towards liberation and equality, no one should be left behind. It's not just about some of us; it's about all of us. Together, we can create a world where pride knows no bounds, where every person is free to express their authentic self, and where diversity is our greatest strength. Let's continue Marsha P. Johnson's legacy by working hand in hand to build a more inclusive and equitable society. Your voice matters, and together, we can ensure that no one is left behind in our pursuit of progress and liberation. 🌍🌈 #InclusivityMatters #PrideForAll

Embrace Your Journey with Pride (yeah you!) Each of us has a unique journey, filled with challenges, triumphs, and moments of self-discovery. Whether you’re part of the LGBTQIA community or an ally, this month is about celebrating those journeys and standing proud of who we are. Why should EVERYONE be proud of their journey? #Authenticity: Living authentically is a powerful act. It takes courage to embrace who you are, despite societal pressures or expectations. #Resilience: Our journeys often involve overcoming obstacles. Each challenge faced and surmounted is a testament to our strength and resilience. #Growth: Every experience contributes to our personal growth. By reflecting on our journeys, we can see how far we’ve come and appreciate the lessons learned. #Community: Pride Month is a reminder of the supportive and diverse communities we are part of. Celebrating together strengthens our bonds and fosters a sense of belonging. As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s honor the courage of those who have paved the way for equality and continue to fight for inclusivity. Let’s also take a moment to reflect on our own journeys and be proud of the paths we’ve walked. Remember, being proud of your journey isn’t just for June—it’s a lifelong celebration. #Inclusion #BeYourself #CelebratePride #JourneyWithPride

Top tips for championing inclusivity during Pride month...and beyond! 🌈 Be an ally, learn about LGBTQIA issues to enhance your understanding and support of the community. 🌈 Examine and challenge your own biases to cultivate a more inclusive mindset. 🌈 Confront discriminatory language or behaviours, promoting respect and acceptance. 🌈 Utilise inclusive language and pronouns to foster a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. 🌈 Listen to LGBTQIA experiences and concerns with empathy and without judgement. 🌈 Advocate for policies and practices that promote equality and protect against discrimination. LGBTQIA inclusion should take place 365 days of the year. This is why Lifetime Group has its Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy in place to make sure we’re always considering the rights and needs of the LGBTQIA community when decisions are being made, and to avoid any kind of ‘performative allyship’.

As #PrideMonth2024 comes to an end, let’s remember to continuously celebrate and support the LGBTQIA community all year-round. At YLD, we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and continuously strive to improve our support for the LGBTQIA community. We host regular learning sessions with our team, and together with community advocates we explore new ways to support the LGBTQIA community together. Let's keep the discussion going: How are you supporting the LGBTQIA community? Comment below! #PrideMonth #pride #inclusivity