With that in mind, we feel that everyone can learn from other people’s experiences, and in Pride Month, we look to celebrate the achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community which will in hand build stronger relationships. 

We spoke to our colleagues to discover what Pride Month means to them, here’s what they had to say: 

Pride Month to me, is a month of solidarity for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. It fills me with joy when I see people encouraging others to be their true, authentic self, which is why I encourage everyone I can to participate in some way. I hope everyone learns at least one thing this month that makes them think, and maybe even changes their normal everyday behaviours.

I’m really happy to see Realise is now celebrating Pride Month. Over the years I’ve been unsure whether at work I can be who I really am, and while I’ve got a long way to go this makes me feel better, so thank you for raising awareness of Pride! 

However, please be aware that Pride is more than just a rainbow flag; it’s about the ongoing fight for equality for LGBTQ+ people all around the world, especially now at such a frightening time for trans people like myself where our very right to exist is under attack, particularly both here and in the US. We now find ourselves, our very lives and existence, in the middle of a purposefully constructed and calculated, but totally ludicrous, ‘trans debate’ – there is no ‘debate’ about human rights, and there is no equality until we are all equal. 

I will always have hope for the future though, and it is only through love, kindness, compassion and understanding that we can build a better world for everyone. 

Pride is important to me because not only is it a celebration of the freedom to be yourself, it also serves as a reminder of how far we as a society have come since the beginning of Pride celebrations over fifty years ago. There’s still a long way to go, but each year is like another step away from a more narrow minded, judgemental mentality and toward a much more open minded, embracing and inclusive way of life. 

As an ally to the LGBTQ+ community in its 50th year, the significance to me is ensuring that people can feel comfortable and confident and be their whole selves at work and challenge any biases. Everyone learns and works better when they’re in an environment where they feel comfortable.  Pride Month is an opportunity to do just that, learn from history and to come together. 

With it being Pride Month, I’d like to share a personal reflection. Several years ago, a close friend and colleague asked me if I thought it was safe for him to come out as gay at work, he had worked for the company for 16 years! He was concerned that it would damage his career. Even though this company was well known for being an inclusive workplace, he wasn’t sure whether it truly was. It taught me not to make assumptions about what it takes to make a person feel comfortable to be their true self, and instead to seek to understand – we can all do more of that. Thankfully, my friend did find the courage to come out and went on to have a very successful career. More importantly though, he’s happy. 

As an openly gay man since the age of around 18, Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate the inclusivity and openness that is available to the LGBTQIA+ community and their families. 

I remember what a big step it was for me personally to come out, as I was worried that I wouldn’t be accepted by those around me. So by celebrating this month we can bring awareness to others and demonstrate that positivity and inclusivity are real. 

We are proud to be able to share our colleague’s thoughts about Pride Month and that they felt comfortable to share their views with us. Everyone has the right to work in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment no matter their background, gender or sexuality and this something we strive for all year round at Realise. We are looking forward to sharing some more exciting content with you this month. Happy Pride! 

If you have been affected by a topic in this piece, or know someone who may be struggling, you can contact Stonewall for free here:  Help & Advice | Stonewall