Impact Experience’s Post

“As the studies and surveys cited here demonstrate, #LGBTQ+ people living in #rural communities encounter the same mental healthcare challenges as other rural Americans, but the disparities in accessing resources and appropriate treatment can be even more difficult because of existing prejudices and discrimination. It’s a call to action for rural communities to come together to increase awareness and dispel the stigma experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Some ways communities can help to tackle the disparities include: In rural #healthcare – Educate the workforce, put in place inclusive systems of care, and implement policies that address discrimination. In rural schools – Implement practices and policies to support #LGBTQyouth. In local and state governments – Propose and support laws and public policies that enforce protections against discrimination of LGBTQ+ people.” #RuralHealth

Estate Planning: An Essential for LGBTQ+ Equality 🌈 🏳️🌈 As we continue to fight for equality, estate planning remains essential for protecting our rights and relationships. This Pride Month, let's focus on securing our future. #PrideMonth #LGBTQRights #EstatePlanning

I love that we support and celebrate inclusiveness and diversity, but honestly, I have to speak from my perspective as a CEO. I often wonder if it's me, the person, or my mindset as a Leader and a CEO. I believe the only time we will be inclusive is when no one has to wave a flag or wear a badge or a wristband. Same for disabilities, ethnicity, or colour. People talk crap even when wanting not to... 'Oh, I don't see colour...' said a mate of mine recently. 'Well, get an eye test, pal; he is as black as the Ace of Spades, ' I replied. Oh no, that's not what I meant said he. Yes, it wasn't, but why do you even have to state that? Why does it need to be said? Just be his mate. I guess what I am trying, and probably failing and inviting a load of snowflakes to pile in, is people are people. When we get to a stage where none of this is a subject matter, that is what I call inclusive. As for diversity, well, God decided that already. What's it got to do with us? There are some things I am well known for by my friends and family. One is that I have absolutely no 'Gay-Dar'. One of my good pals from past work life is now a woman, and considering our personal backgrounds, I find it extremely difficult to get my head around but equally not at all difficult to accept. It's her life; she can do what she likes that makes her happy. I couldn't give a monkey's what she chooses to do; she's still the same person as when I first knew her, apart from the blindingly obvious and having a far less deep voice. I think the longer this need to recognise everyone with their own special symbols and the like, actually the further away we get from where people aspire to be. If someone is Gay, Bi-, Straight whatever, It doesn't occur to me at all, and I am equally not the slightest bit bothered when I become aware of it. What I care about is simple. In work, are you a good colleague, a grafter who is aware that the customer pays us all and values them? In my social life, are you good company, do we share values and interests, or are you really annoying or boring? Those things are the only things that matter, or should matter. When we can take pride in not needing symbols or events like pride flag and month then and only then in my humble opinion do I reckon we have cracked it. Until then though, Happy Pride Month to everyone who feels represented and that it gives them belief they can live happily and openly. I hope I am wrong and that actually it is empowering and breaking down barriers without what I like to call 'Idiots' who haven't got the brains they were born with being like scared rabbits towards anyone who is different from them. Until then, please call out all 'Idiots' instead of looking at your feet or looking away. Failing to discourage, by its very definition, lacks courage, and that's the only difference; people of Pride Month have had to show courage; the least you can do is make that inclusive by showing your own where they do get abused by the Idiots.

Allies within the LGBTQ+ community are crucial in promoting equality, safety and inclusion for all LGBTQ+ people. This module will discuss how you can create safer spaces (wherever that may be) for LGBTQ+ people by avoiding assumptions, removing tokenism and challenging discriminatory behaviour. Find out more about the individual modules we have on offer on our website - https://buff.ly/3QjiAU7

some exciting resources available in this article

How can leaders help create a work environment that provides the foundation for the LGBTQ+ community to be seen, heard and included? Members of Spencer Stuart's LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group share their insights: https://lnkd.in/eNDVCMi3

Today is National Coming Out Day, a day created to help everyone better understand the LGBTQ+ journey and why LGBTQ+ visibility matters. As a firm founded by an out and proud gay man, we encourage everyone to embrace your authenticity and support equality. Explore these resources: https://bit.ly/3ZRhLoO #mlaglobal #lgbtq #equality #diversityinclusion

During LGBTQ+ History Month, we recognize and honor the people who have been examples of strength and courage and have paved the way for today’s advances for the LGBTQ+ community. We also celebrate the LGBTQ-owned California businesses and the contributions they’ve made to their local communities and the state! Learn more about LGBTQ+ History Month and how small businesses can create inclusive workspaces using the link here: https://bit.ly/3F1rL3W #LGBTQHistoryMonth #LGBTQOwnedBusiness #EmployABILITYBusinessGrant #SmallBusiness #InclusionMatters #Celebrate #CaliforniaBusiness

In a time when every voice matters, cutting through anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, specifically anti-trans rhetoric, is one of the most important things businesses can do to show up for our community. Whether you’re a small, mid-size or large business YOU have the power to change the narrative. Learn how you can advocate for equality, amplify LGBTQ+ voices and educate key stakeholders: https://hrc.im/countusin #TransAwarenessWeek

As we celebrate #PrideMonth and the LGBTQ+ people in our communities, let’s consider how we can enhance well-being and recovery within LGBTQ+ communities. 📜 Check out this article from the GAINS Center that looks at inequities LGBTQ+ communities experience when they are at the intersection of the mental health and criminal legal system and learn about possibilities for change: https://bit.ly/3KbRz0Z