June 27, 2019

Pride is just the beginning

From the desk of CEO Toby Hervey

Philadelphia Pride Flag amidst abstract shapes

By this time next week, the rainbow decorations will be gone from the storefront windows, companies’ social media profile pictures will be back to their original colors, and the glitter and confetti will have (mostly) washed off your city’s sidewalks. The month-long celebration of Pride may be wrapping up around the world this weekend, but the realities of being an LGBTQ+ person in the workplace don’t stop on July 1.

The fight for acceptance and inclusion isn’t over for LGBTQ+ employees. Twenty-nine states still allow anti-LGBTQ+ workplace discrimination, including firing someone for their sexual orientation or gender identity. Nearly half of LGBTQ+ employees are closeted at work, fearing harassment or damage to their careers. And according to our research, 80% of LGBTQ+ employees are avoiding tough conversations at work due to negative past experiences.

Being a truly inclusive company means taking the time to understand the very real ways that aspects of a person’s identity affect their lives at work, taking steps to eliminate the double standards of respectability that exist for marginalized groups, and, above all, creating a culture that allows for open and honest conversations.

As a gay professional, I know firsthand the importance of creating an environment where everyone can bring their full, true selves to work. In founding Bravely, I’ve sought not only to do exactly that at my own company, but to empower other companies to do the same. Creating an inclusive workplace is an ongoing effort—there’s always something new to learn, and more that can be done.

I’m so grateful to the companies that have joined us by committing to work more Bravely, and look forward to welcoming more. Happy Pride—today, tomorrow, and all year ‘round.

All the best,

Toby Hervey

More from the blog

  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

    Thriving through inclusion: Unpacking the importance of inclusive leadership

    Use inclusive leadership to drive innovation and growth by fostering the collective strength of unique perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences.

    Read More
  • Inside Bravely

    People Leadership Summer Reading List 2023

    If you’re looking for a few new professional development reads, here’s a list we think you might like.

    Read More
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

    How employee development for all, not just executives, benefits organizations

    When you offer employee development to everyone, you create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.

    Read More

Partner with Bravely today

Reach out to schedule a conversation about how Bravely can support your team with individualized support