The episode you’re about to hear is one of nearly a dozen conversations a part of the show’s podcast mini-series, The Business of Belonging, brought to you by Out & Equal. Out & Equal is the premier global nonprofit organization working exclusively on LGBTQ+ workplace equality.

In this particular episode, we’re focusing on the LGBTQ+ Movement’s History as it relates to the workplace here in the United States…and we know…

LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion goes beyond “food, fun, and famous people” during Pride celebrations. It goes beyond flashy public relations statements made by a CEO. More often than not, it begins with a small group of thoughtful, committed LGBTQ+ employees and allies willing to collaborate with organizational leaders to upend invisible workplace barriers they endure.

Over the past few decades, significant outcomes have resulted from this type of workplace advocacy. On a national level, the U.S. Military's “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Policy was rescinded and replaced with allowing more queer people to openly serve at the world’s second largest employer, and in 2020 the U.S. Supreme Court banned employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Despite these enormous gains, LGBTQ+ people, particularly BIPOC, transgender, and nonbinary people - still endure employment discrimination, harassment, persistent microaggressions, and violence on-the-job. As a consequence, LGBTQ+ people are more likely to live below the poverty line, deal with suppressed wages, and fear their job security and prospects for advancement simply for existing.

To better contextualize the recent history of the LGBTQ+ movement, the journey leading brands have taken to include LGBTQ+ employees, and what’s likely on the horizon in the years ahead, I have the distinct privilege of interviewing someone I deeply respect and admire, Bob Witeck.

If you’re unfamiliar with Bob, he is President of Witck Communications, Inc., and for nearly four decades a pioneering communications strategist dedicated to the advancement of LGBTQ+ communities around the world. He is a communications consultant, author, speaker, and researcher.

Together, during our conversation, you will:

• Learn about the key milestones and turning points in the LGBTQ+ workplace rights movement, and how these events have shaped the current landscape.

• Gain an understanding of the work still ahead to upend the ongoing challenges and barriers experienced by LGBTQ+ employees - particularly for BIPOC and trans people.

• Recognize the role LGBTQ+ employee resource groups (ERGs) and allies play in building strength in numbers to continue moving workplaces along the inclusion journey.

This interview was designed to support people like you - visionary leaders, and those on their way to joining us. Savor this insightful talk, and if you’re looking for more ways to connect with inspiring leaders like Bob, be sure to join our Belonging Membership Community - a community of practice committed to putting our values of belonging, community, and collaboration into action. Members have the unique opportunity to connect with guests like Bob for 1:1 laser coaching sessions.

Want to imagine and build more belonging at work? Then join the Belonging Movement Newsletter and connect with the latest belonging at work insights, resources, and programs to support your practice: www.rhodesperry.com/subscribe.

Interested in learning more about Out & Equal and the benefits of an Out & Equal Partnership? Visit Become a Partner | Out & Equal.

Out & Equal: https://outandequal.org/