As we mark the end of Pride Month this year, it's crucial to remember that Pride is more than just a month or a day—it’s a commitment. It's not just about donning rainbow gear and slapping some glitter on your company logo. It's about a sustained effort to support the LGBTQ+ community every day, every month, every year.
Every June, like clockwork, corporations around the globe roll out their rainbow-centric merchandise, emblems, and melodies. It's a spectacle of colors and slogans, all in the name of LGBTQ+ equality. Yet, as the confetti settles and the hashtags lose their sparkle, the real work begins. The conclusion of this month-long recognition is a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with being an Ally.
Remember TAweek in January? I talked about the surge in anti-LGBTQ+ bills and laws. Spoiler alert: things haven't improved. In fact, they've gotten worse. We're seeing a noticeable retreat from some corporate allies, likely due to political pressures. This is concerning, especially given the increase in violent threats and the introduction of over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills this year alone. Yes, you read that right—over 500.
The rhetoric aimed at turning us against one another is only exacerbating these issues. It’s like throwing gasoline on a fire and then acting surprised when everything goes up in flames. Our fight for equality is far from over, and it's high time we face that fact head-on.
Collectively, our actions can usher in significant change. But it requires more than a fleeting moment of solidarity. Authentic Allyship necessitates a continuous commitment to education, advocating against discrimination, supporting LGBTQ+ organizations, and cultivating inclusive environments. It's about standing up and being counted, every single day.
So, what does this look like in practice? It means pushing back against discriminatory legislation, not just with words but with action. It means ensuring that your workplace policies are inclusive and supportive. It means donating to and volunteering for LGBTQ+ organizations. It means being vocal and visible in your support, not just when it’s convenient or trendy.
Being an Ally isn't about getting a pat on the back or earning a few diversity points. It's about genuine commitment. It’s about recognizing that love is love, and everyone deserves to live their truth without fear of prejudice or violence.
As we close out Pride Month, let’s not pack away our Allyship with the decorations. Let’s carry it forward, every day. Because the fight for equality isn't over, and our commitment to it shouldn't be either.
Love is love, and it's our collective duty to stand up and champion equality—today, tomorrow, and always.
Hi there, I’m Brian, and in addition to this Substack, I’m writing the proverbial (no surprise here) sequel to Talk Tech To Me. I take on the stress and strain of complex technology concepts and simplify them for the modern recruiter.