Uniting to create an inclusive culture

Although Pride Month is celebrated annually in June, it can be easy to forget the origins of this event that happened more than a half-century ago. It's been 51 years since the original Pride March took place in New York City. And while many things have changed in five decades, there is still considerable work to be done across the country, in communities and in our organizations to embrace diversity, equity and inclusion.  

The statistics are alarming. According to Gallup's update on lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender identification, 5.6% of U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ . And one in six adults in Generation Z considers themselves LGBTQ . The fear of workplace discrimination likely holds many employees back from bringing their authentic selves to work, hindering innovation, creativity and teamwork.  

At Athene, I'm proud of our history of being an inclusive workplace. As organizations and the marketplace expand – whether globally or outside their traditional communities – it's imperative to have perspectives that capture the authentic fabric of those we serve. That means inviting everyone to the table to engage, share ideas and feel supported. It's about uplifting one another, acting with compassion and humility, and learning from those with different perspectives and experiences than our own.  

Diversity and inclusion must be seamlessly woven together. Our team at Athene is focused on always looking forward. The analogy that the windshield in a car is larger for a reason than the rear-view mirror could be a metaphor for Pride Month. Understanding what's behind us can be a useful guide, but we must focus on the journey ahead. Only then will monumental change take place. 

We're challenging ourselves to do more by deepening education among our existing workforce and communities about diversity, equity and inclusion, increasing the diversity of our workforce, and building a positive culture of inclusion and belonging. Our Employee Resource Group is setting up an information table outside the cafeteria to provide education to our employees about LGBTQ and we are hosting a Lunch and Learn, led by Executive Director of One Iowa, Courtney Reyes, to learn more about the LGBTQ community. We are also sponsoring the Storytellers event for the third year in a row with local leaders sharing their experiences. Athene's culture revolves around being game-changers not only during Pride Month, but on every day of the year. 

This Pride Month, let’s find ways to educate ourselves and others on the LGBTQ history, culture and concerns. We are stronger together and stronger for the differences we embrace – and only together can we build a more inclusive and understanding community.