Celebrating Pride Month: June 2024

Ahead of Pride Month (June 2024), we caught up with Adrian Golifer, Chair of the Miindful Wellbeing Network and joint Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Insurance Institute of Manchester, to hear:

• why Pride Month matters;
• about the origins of Pride Month; and
• more about this year’s Insurance Institute entry into the Manchester Pride Parade.

Pride Matters

Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. It is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made towards equality and to recognise the work still to be done.

Pride events foster a sense of belonging and community, allowing individuals to express their true selves without fear of judgement or discrimination.

Key Events and Symbols

Throughout June, cities worldwide host parades, festivals, and events celebrating LGBTQ+ culture. The rainbow flag, a symbol of diversity and inclusivity, flies high, representing the spectrum of identities within the community.

Did you know that each colour has a specific meaning?

Red – for life

Orange – for healing

Yellow – for sunlight

Green – for nature

Blue – for harmony

Purple – for spirit

Join the Insurance Institute at Manchester’s LGBTQ+ Pride Parade 2024!

Calling all proud individuals, allies, and advocates of the LGBTQ+ community! Get ready to celebrate diversity, promote inclusivity, and create lasting memories in a vibrant, positive, and empowering atmosphere.

One of the most anticipated events of the year is the Manchester Pride Parade on Saturday 24th August 2024, and the Insurance Institute will once again be taking part – offering attendees many social and networking opportunities!

This year's Parade theme, ‘Buzzin’ to be Queer - A Hive of Progress’, highlights the iconic worker bee, deeply rooted in Manchester's history. The bee symbolises not only the hard work that has defined the city's history but also the ongoing commitment to progress, inclusivity, and equality that Manchester Pride champions.

Supporting the LGBTQ+ Community

Supporting the LGBTQ+ community goes beyond celebration. It involves advocating for equal rights, challenging discriminatory practices, and promoting inclusivity in all areas of life.

The insurance community of Manchester has a significant role to play by fostering inclusive workplaces, supporting LGBTQ+ initiatives, and ensuring representation at all levels.

Read the 10-point plan below for ideas on how you and/or your employer can help promote an inclusive culture at work, making it a more supportive place for everyone!

Reflecting on Progress

Pride Month is also a time for reflection. While significant strides have been made in LGBTQ+ rights, challenges remain. Legal protections vary globally, and discrimination persists in many areas. By educating ourselves and others, we can continue to push for a world where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can live freely and authentically.

The Past - The Present - and The Future!

As we celebrate Pride Month 2024, let's honour the past, celebrate the present, and advocate for a more inclusive future.

Whether through attending events, educating oneself, or supporting LGBTQ+ causes, everyone can contribute to the spirit of Pride.

Together, we can create a world where love and equality prevail.

🏳️‍🌈 Don’t forget to save the date! 🏳️‍🌈

The Manchester Pride Parade will take place on 24th August 2024. Further details of the Insurance Institute entry will follow soon.

For more information about this article, please contact Adrian at adrian.golifer@createsolutions.co.uk or Jordan at jordan.hurst@clewis.com

🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍🌈 Ten-point plan for celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

1. Educational Workshops and Speaker Events:

• Invite LGBTQ+ activists, educators, or influencers to speak about their experiences and the importance of inclusivity in the workplace.
• Organise workshops on topics such as allyship, the history of the LGBTQ+ movement, and understanding gender and sexual diversity.

2. Pride Parade Participation:

• Organise a group to participate in the Manchester Pride parade. Provide t-shirts and flags for team members to show unity and support.
• Consider sponsoring or having a presence in the parade to increase visibility for your employer.

3. Internal Awareness Campaigns:

• Launch an internal awareness campaign within your firm featuring stories and interviews with LGBTQ+ employees.
• Create informational posters or a digital slideshow to educate staff about different LGBTQ+ identities and terminologies.

4. Support Local LGBTQ+ Charities:

• Collaborate with local LGBTQ+ charities and organisations by hosting fundraising events or drives.
• Consider setting up a matching donation scheme where your employer matches the donations made by employees.

5. Networking Events:

• Host and/or attend a networking event for LGBTQ+ professionals in the insurance industry. This can help in fostering a community and sharing experiences.
• Use this as an opportunity to discuss the specific challenges faced in the insurance sector and how they can be addressed.

6. Inclusivity Training:

• Offer training sessions for all staff on inclusivity in the workplace, focusing on how to create a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ colleagues.
• Update or create policies that ensure the workplace is inclusive and welcoming for everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.

7. Visibility and Representation:

• Ensure that LGBTQ+ visibility is prominent in your company's internal and external communications during Pride month.
• Update marketing materials and social media with Pride-themed graphics and messages supporting the LGBTQ+ community.

8. Supportive Resources:

• Provide resources and tools for LGBTQ+ employees, such as access to counselling and support groups.
• Establish a mentorship program within your institute that pairs LGBTQ+ staff with allies or other LGBTQ+ members in senior roles.

9. Celebratory Events:

• Organise a Pride celebration event at the office with decorations, food, and music to create a festive atmosphere.
• Consider a virtual event component to include remote employees.

10. Feedback and Continuous Improvement:

• After Pride month, gather feedback from employees on the events and initiatives. Use this to make improvements for the following year, then continuously monitor and adapt your D&I strategies to ensure they are effective and meet the needs of all employees.