myGwork - LGBTQ Business Community’s Post

How Your Business Can Become a Certified NGLCC Business 🌈 Diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords—they're essential components of success. The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) certification is a prestigious recognition awarded to businesses that demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion, particularly within the LGBTQ community. It's a powerful symbol of your company's values and a testament to your dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Why Should Your Business Get Certified? Access to Opportunities: NGLCC certification opens doors to new business opportunities, contracts, and partnerships within the LGBTQ community and beyond. Enhanced Credibility: Certification enhances your company's credibility and reputation as an inclusive and socially responsible organization. Networking and Support: Joining the NGLCC network provides access to valuable resources, networking events, and support from like-minded businesses. Alignment with Corporate Values: Certification aligns your company with the values of diversity, equality, and inclusion, both internally and externally. Becoming a certified NGLCC business is not just about gaining recognition—it's about making a meaningful commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality. It's a powerful statement of your company's values and a testament to your dedication to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. Learn more about what steps to take here: https://loom.ly/_eEJECU #DiversityandInclusion #NGLCC #PrideMonth

🌈🌟 Celebrating Pride Month with Pride! 🌟🌈 This Pride Month, we’re thrilled to spotlight some incredible LGBTQ-owned Canadian B Corps that are pioneering inclusivity and driving positive change. These companies embody the spirit of the B Corp movement, dedicated to using business as a force for good: Mason Studio Inc. – Renowned for their innovative design solutions, Mason Studio seamlessly integrates inclusivity and sustainability into every project, creating spaces that celebrate diversity and foster community connections. BNP Performance philanthropique/BNP Goldie Canada – This firm is at the forefront of philanthropic advisory, empowering organizations to achieve their social missions. They champion LGBTQ causes and ensure that inclusivity is a core component of their strategic guidance. TUX  – As a creative agency, TUX harnesses the power of storytelling to amplify marginalized voices. Their commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in their projects and workplace culture, setting a high standard for creative industries. enuf Canada – This forward-thinking company focuses on providing sustainable and ethical products that make a positive impact on both people and the planet. Enuf’s dedication to LGBTQ inclusivity is woven into their business practices and community engagement efforts. Mediavore interactif – A digital agency that prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity, Mediavore’s innovative solutions ensure that digital spaces are welcoming for everyone. Their work promotes equal opportunities and representation within the tech industry. HOBÉ HOSOKAWA MARKETING – Specializing in strategic marketing, Hobe Hosokawa Marketing is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Their campaigns not only resonate with broad audiences but also uplift LGBTQ voices and stories. These trailblazers are not just businesses; they are beacons of hope and change. Join us in celebrating their remarkable contributions to creating a more equitable and vibrant world! 🏳️🌈 #PrideMonth #BCorp #LGBTQ #DiversityandInclusion #CanadianBCorps #BusinessForGood #CelebrateDiversity #CanadianBCorpDirectory

Happy Pride Month! Check out this article on how to certify your business for LGBTQ !

Learn the ins and outs of this massive market segment!

In a 2020 article for YPulse, I warned about the pitfalls of “rainbow-washing” during Pride Month, emphasizing that Gen Z and young LGBTQ consumers demand real action over empty gestures. Fast forward to 2024, and we see that the call for authenticity is louder than ever. This April, Lime launched its largest-ever global Pride campaign, decking out their vehicles in vibrant Pride wraps. But they didn’t stop at aesthetics; they focused on creating safe pathways for the LGBTQ community to access their cherished third spaces—those vital sanctuaries where self-expression thrives. In June, Lime took another step by implementing a "no go zone" around a Progress Pride flag mural in Spokane, WA, to protect it from (further) vandalism. This move showcases Lime's commitment to creating not just a safe, but a respectful environment. It's clear that third spaces have become critical for Gen Z. With the decline of traditional workplaces and the impact of the pandemic, the need for external social hubs has intensified. These spaces aren't just physical locations—they are lifelines for connection and community. Lime’s actions resonate deeply with this generation's values. By safeguarding spaces for expression and community, they’re not just marketing inclusivity—they’re embodying it. This is the level of commitment that today’s youth expects: actionable, transparent, and genuinely supportive. The takeaway? Brands must evolve from performative allyship to authentic engagement. Gen Z is searching for their third place, and they’ll gravitate towards those who help create and protect these essential spaces. Let’s move beyond the rainbows and promises and build communities where everyone feels seen, safe, and celebrated. #GenZ #LGBTQ #PrideMonth #ThirdPlaces #Authenticity #CommunityBuilding #BrandStrategy

The LGBTQ community has a multifaceted impact on economic growth, as businesses, consumers, and part of the workforce. LGBTQ-owned businesses stimulate economic activity in underserved segments, with founders and leaders acting as role models and mentors for aspiring members of the community. LGBTQ consumers and allies also wield their purchasing power to drive brands toward supporting equal rights and inclusive marketing. And as employees, they push for change from within by bringing diverse perspectives and advocating for inclusive policies, thus creating a more engaged workforce and improved innovation and productivity. I discuss more in People Matters #PrideMonth #Pride #PrideEveryDay #LGBTQ #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #HGS #LifeAtHGS

Happy Pride Month! June is a time to celebrate love, diversity, and the power of inclusion. It's a moment to honor the history, achievements, and contributions of the LGBTQ community while also recognizing the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. Pride Month is more than just a celebration; it’s a reminder of the importance of embracing diversity in all its forms and fostering a culture of inclusion in our workplaces and communities. Embracing Diversity at Work At employHER, we believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace leads to innovation, creativity, and a stronger team. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Example: Last year, we launched an LGBTQ employee resource group (ERG) to provide a supportive space for our LGBTQ employees and allies. This group organizes events, workshops, and networking opportunities to foster a sense of community and support within the company. Supporting LGBTQ Employees Support for LGBTQ employees goes beyond policies and benefits; it’s about creating a culture of acceptance and respect. This means actively listening to their experiences, addressing any discrimination or bias, and providing opportunities for growth and development. Example: One of our team members, Alex, shared how the inclusive culture at our company has positively impacted their career. "Having a workplace where I can be my authentic self has allowed me to thrive professionally and personally. The support from my colleagues and leadership has been incredible," Alex said. Celebrating Pride Virtually and In-Person Whether you're celebrating Pride Month virtually or in-person, there are many ways to show your support and solidarity. Host virtual Pride events, participate in local Pride parades, or share educational resources about LGBTQ history and rights. Example: This year, we are hosting a series of virtual Pride events, including a panel discussion with LGBTQ leaders, a virtual Pride parade, and a Pride-themed trivia night. These events aim to educate, celebrate, and inspire our employees and community. Giving Back to the Community Supporting LGBTQ organizations and causes is another powerful way to celebrate Pride Month. Consider donating to LGBTQ charities, volunteering your time, or partnering with organizations that support LGBTQ rights. Example: We have partnered with local LGBTQ nonprofits to support their initiatives. This includes volunteering at community centers, donating to LGBTQ youth programs, and participating in fundraising events. We should celebrate PRIDE all year long, not just in June. #pridemonth #LGBTQ #diversityandinclusion #loveislove #supportandcelebrate #inclusiveworkplace #pride2024 #linkedincommunity

There are plenty of simple yet meaningful ways to show your support for the LGBTQ community during #PrideMonth and beyond. Here's what you can do as a small business owner👇 https://lnkd.in/eW_qMTEY

We celebrated our one-year anniversary in style by welcoming Matt Cameron, CEO of LGBT Great as our speaker at our latest Campaign event, ‘Be the change you want to see’. He is an experienced talent management, diversity and organisational development leader who built his career and passion for LGBT inclusion within the recruitment sector. Matt is responsible for the development of LGBT Great’s programmes, the strategic direction of the organisation and advising organisations on DE&I issues. Who better to join us to discuss the incredible work he and his business are doing to promote LGBTQ inclusivity and what we could all do in our own workplaces as we move into year two of Campaign?  Here are our four key takeaways. 1. Create a culture of allies. Allyship is so powerful. When people from outside of the LGBTQ community stand up to protect the rights of those actively and visibly within it the message sent is that our businesses are safe places. Safe for the LGBTQ community within our businesses and safe for anyone looking to join. Read more about creating a culture of allies here (https://bit.ly/3ZGJGb0) 2. Role models. Promote your willing, LGBTQ role models. Create a platform for them to be visible internally and externally. It’s human nature to strive for what we can see. If we can’t see it, we don’t know what is possible. Show the LGBTQ community what is possible not only within your business but within the sector itself. 3. Do good to be good. Use your CSR programme to promote inclusivity by supporting an LGBTQ charity through either fundraising or volunteering. By doing so you very visibly place the importance of LGBTQ inclusion within your workplace culture and create a safe place for the community. 4. Action. Don’t let the fear of getting it wrong drive you to inaction. Who has got it right? You want to increase inclusivity in your own workplace but don’t know where to start? Look at other businesses, who have got it right. Who is promoting inclusivity in the right way? We can learn so many lessons from what others are doing in this space, what works and what doesn’t. It was brilliant to ‘open the circle’ and welcome so many of our LGBTQ colleagues and their allies to this inspiring event. It certainly gave us a chance to see how far we have come in our first year and what exciting opportunities there are going forward! Can’t wait to see what our next year brings. If you are interested in attending an event, sponsorship opportunities or want to get involved with Campaign, visit https://www.wecampaign.co/