As June marks the start of Pride Month, a month dedicated to the support of the LGBTIQ+ community and the end of the Stonewall Riots, we’re using this month to celebrate our diverse team here at DiUS and share stories and perspectives from our community.
Diversity isn’t a day on the corporate calendar for DiUS, we proudly lean into our value of “Spread Change” through embracing authenticity in a judgment free work environment – period. Hear our people vulnerably share their perspectives:
Why are LGBTQIA+ inclusive language and actions important to you?
Jaz: As someone who identifies as an LGBTQIA+ person, feeling included and accepted is personally something that I’ve struggled with in the past, particularly early on in my career. It is important for me to ensure others don’t experience the same.
Kavita: As a Queer person of color this helps me feel seen and included. LGBTQIA+ language is very important to creating an inclusive space, it provides power and equity to marginalized communities and ensures equity. There are several instances where words that were previously perceived as being degrading slurs have been reclaimed by the Queer community. Using inclusive language is also a means to ensuring equity and giving power back to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Laura: Inclusive language and actions are important because it encourages people of all sexual orientations and gender identities to be treated with respect, dignity and equality.
How does DiUS demonstrate inclusivity in the LGBTQIA+ community?
Nat: The DiUS team have all shown such a willingness and eagerness to not only keep learning more about our inclusive community and its continuous growth, but also building a culture that supports that, not only on the world renown days like pride month for example, but consistently each and every day.
Dhiraj: There are many examples, but what stands out most is the inclusivity DiUS shows in its hiring process and giving equal opportunities to all. Celebrating successes without any bias. The actions of DiUS in general makes one feel appreciated and feels confident to share their opinions.
Kavita: One of my first memories of entering the DiUS Sydney office was the rainbow sticker by the door along with the message of “You are welcome here”. As a member of the queer community, that made me feel seen and accepted the moment I walked in.
What tips or advice do you have for people wanting to be an ally?
Jaz: Just lean into it and don’t be afraid to show support and do simple things by participating and or celebrating certain events such as Pride Month. Perhaps something as simple as changing your background on Zoom or Google Meets.
Nat: Being an effective ally for the LGBTQIA+ community involves ongoing learning, empathy, and active support. Always keep yourself informed, research and stay in touch with emerging communities, be mindful of these communities facing other oppression or discriminations against race or background or religion, for example. Ensure you always practice privacy not sharing information that is not yours to share unless given permission. Stay active in the community constantly showing your support and raising awareness and be open to feedback as allyship is a process that does not have an end date!
Nicole: We are all humans and we all deserve kindness and respect. Put aside what you think you know, be open to different views, and listen.
The authentic comments above from both allies and those representing the LGBTIQ+ community confirms that values such as acceptance, diversity and kindness are alive at DiUS irrespective of the month and we’re proudly here to support pride today and everyday.