Honoring Pride, Embracing Inclusion: A Journey of Gathering, Dreaming, and Amplifying

I grew up in a small town in West Texas where being openly gay isn’t celebrated — rather it requires a level of caution and awareness. Those memories reminded me of the tumultuous environment we are living in today.

Now, it is more important than ever that we come together as One Team — one of Skillsoft’s core values — united in our commitment to advancing inclusion for all.

Pride month is supposed to be a time for celebration, reflection, and action. It serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight to achieve freedom, inclusion, and justice without exception for the LGBTQIA2S+ community. However, we are currently witnessing an increase in violent attacks on LGBTQIA2S+ people, the banning of books with any semblance of a non-heteronormative theme, and the proliferation of anti-trans laws. Additionally, corporations have faced scrutiny for their commitment to LGBTQIAS2+ solidarity.

Together, we must stand firmly against discrimination, support, and uplift diverse cultures, and continue to champion LGBTQIA2S+ rights. By amplifying the voices of the marginalized, challenging discriminatory practices, and fostering an inclusive environment, we can create a society that truly honors the principles of freedom and justice for all.

As Skillsoft gathers together, dreams boldly, and amplifies the voices of underrepresented communities, we embark on a journey of fostering inclusion, acceptance, and growth during this year’s Pride month. This year, Superbia, the Employee Advisory Group for LGBTQIA2S+ Community and Allies, emphasizes the importance of providing space and amplifying the voices of everyone in our vibrant community by announcing our 2023 pride month theme: Gather, Dream, Amplify.

Pride month is not just about celebrations; it's about standing together with open minds, building a community that is willing to share, learn, and grow. It's a time when we set aside our differences and create an atmosphere where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. In our commitment to gather, we affirm that every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, has a place within Skillsoft.

Check out “How To Unleash the Power of Community in the Remote Workplace” written by our very own, Christpher Whalen, culture and inclusion specialist.

Pride encourages us to dream boldly and envision the future we desire, both at our workplace and in our communities. It is a time to reflect on how far we have come and how far we still have to go in the ongoing fight for freedom, inclusion, and justice without exception.

By dreaming big, we challenge the status quo and inspire positive change. Let us collectively dream of a world where LGBTQIA2S+ individuals are accepted, valued, and celebrated for their unique contributions.

Learn how to use respectful language in and out of the workplace by watching Superbia’s special learning session in Skillsoft’s learning experience platform Percipio, “LGBTQ+ Etiquette and Common Bloopers,” with Jeannie Gainsburg, author of “The Savvy Ally.”

Amplification is a powerful tool in the pursuit of equality and justice. As we celebrate Pride, it is essential that we provide space for, elevate, and share the voices of underrepresented communities within Skillsoft.

By actively amplifying these voices, we break down barriers and create an environment where everyone's perspectives are heard and valued. Together, we can create a workplace culture that fosters collaboration, innovation, and respect.

In Skillsoft Percipio, check out “How to be an Inclusive Leader” by Jennifer Brown, a pioneer in the inclusive leadership movement.

During Pride month, it is crucial to acknowledge the exemplary efforts of our LGBTQIA2S+ employees, such as Chris Whalen and Nicole Wilford, co-chairs of Superbia, our LGBTQIA2S+ Community and Allies EAG. Their tireless dedication to creating a space of belonging, learning, and collaboration has been instrumental in advancing inclusivity at Skillsoft. We express our gratitude to Chris, Nicole, and all LGBTQIA2S+ employees who contribute to making Skillsoft a more inclusive organization.

Pride month is a time for celebration, reflection, and action, where Skillsoft reaffirms its commitment to building a culture of inclusion that honors pride and excellence. Together, we uplift LGBTQIA2S+ voices, value diverse perspectives, and pave the way for a more inclusive future, fostering positive change within Skillsoft and our communities.

Together, we can make a difference.

Be Kind & Happy Pride!

LGBTQ+ Etiquette and Common Bloopers – Superbia ran the workshop in December, and it was immediately adopted into our content library. I’ve linked to the resource here.

Queer Career: Sexuality and Work in Modern America – This is one of this year’s off the shelf book club selections for pride month. It is linked here.

The Savvy Ally By Jeannie Gainsburg – She is our Superbia Speaker this month and the featured speaker in the leadercamp. Book Summary Linked here.

How to be an Inclusive Leader: By Jennifer Brown – Jennifer is a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and a personal hero. She literally wrote the book on inclusive leadership, linked here.