ICAS supports and celebrates Pride month 2023
ICAS is celebrating and supporting Pride month 2023
Pride is a powerful celebration that embraces diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions, signifying a movement towards equality, acceptance, and inclusion. In the workplace, allyship refers to actively supporting and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community.
ICAS flying the flag for Pride
ICAS will once again be marking Pride month and, from today, will fly the Pride flag above our offices at CA House in Edinburgh.
As the celebration kicks off, Sarah Spiers, Executive Director - Member Engagement and Communications, reflects on the importance of marking Pride Month.
"At ICAS, we place equality, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of all that we do. Supporting and celebrating Pride Month is important as it demonstrates solidarity with our members, students and colleagues from the LGBTQ+ community. It's a time to celebrate, but also a time to reflect on what more we all need to do to create a fair and equal society."
Allyship in the workplace means creating an environment where all employees feel safe, respected and valued, and ensuring everyone can bring their whole selves to work.
It’s about creating an inclusive culture that recognises the importance of diversity and actively promotes equality for all employees.
For the LGBTQ+ community, workplace allyship means creating a supportive and affirming environment without fear of discrimination or prejudice, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Being an LGBTQ+ ally in the workplace is essential for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
As we continue to celebrate Pride month, here are some ways to actively demonstrate allyship:
Listen
Actively listen to LGBTQ+ colleagues to create a safe space for open dialogue. Seek their perspectives, experiences and understand the challenges they face. Show respect and support for the stories shared.
Use inclusive language
Be mindful of your language and avoid making assumptions about someone's sexual orientation or gender identity. Use gender-neutral language when appropriate and respect individuals' chosen pronouns.
Stand up against discrimination
If you witness or hear about LGBTQ+ discrimination or harassment, speak up and address the issue.
Support LGBTQ+ initiatives
Participate in and support LGBTQ+ events, such as Pride parades or diversity and inclusion workshops. Offer your time and resources to LGBTQ+ employee resource groups or organisations.
Amplify LGBTQ+ voices
When appropriate, use your platform and influence to amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ colleagues. Share their achievements, ideas and perspectives during meetings, presentations, or other workplace settings.
Continue learning and growing
Allyship is an ongoing journey. Stay informed about evolving LGBTQ+ issues and strive to improve your understanding. Be open to feedback, learn from your mistakes, and continue to grow as an ally.
Hear from CAs on the issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in the workplace and the importance of allyship
Lucas Alexander-Crichton CA: “Businesses must encourage their employees to bring their whole selves to work.”
Gary Motherwell CA: “The greatest thing that allies of any minority group can do is demonstrate their support through their actions.”
Bruce McDougall, CA: “The experience and needs of the LGBT+ community are as varied as the individuals themselves.”
Resources for building better inclusion in the workplace
Inclusive language guide for ICAS members.
