The Impact of Pride: History, Progress, and Workplace Inclusion

Reflecting on the Origins of Pride Month

Pride Month, celebrated every June, commemorates the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing fight for equality within the LGBTQIA+ community. The origins of Pride Month trace back to a pivotal event in LGBTQIA+ history—the Stonewall Riots of 1969. On June 28, 1969, a police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, sparked a series of spontaneous protests and clashes. The raid was not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of discrimination and harassment against the LGBTQIA+ community.

However, the resistance shown by the patrons of Stonewall, many of whom were trans women of color, marked a significant turning point. The riots galvanized the LGBTQIA+ community, leading to the formation of activist groups and the birth of the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement.In the years following the Stonewall Riots, annual marches and parades began to take place in June to honor the event, eventually becoming the Pride Month celebrations we know today. These events serve as a reminder of the progress made and the work still needed to achieve full equality.

The Importance of Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace

As we reflect on the history and significance of Pride Month, it’s essential to recognize the importance of creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Diversity and inclusion are not just about meeting quotas or ticking boxes; they are fundamental to fostering an environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.

A diverse and inclusive workplace brings numerous benefits, including:

• Increased Innovation: A variety of perspectives leads to creative solutions and ideas.
• Enhanced Employee Engagement: Employees who feel included and valued are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.
• Better Decision-Making: Diverse teams are better at making decisions, leading to improved business outcomes.
• Attracting and Retaining Talent: Companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion are more attractive to top talent.

Sterling Brokers’ Commitment to inclusion

At Sterling Brokers, we support diversity and inclusion by offering comprehensive health coverage that addresses the unique needs of diverse workforces. Our group benefits plans include:

• Mental Health Support: Access to counseling, therapy, and virtual care providers like Telus and Dialogue to offer unlimited access to critical care professionals to ensure the mental well-being of all employees.
• Inclusive Benefits: Inclusive benefits that, regardless of gender, ensure that all employees and their loved ones are covered.

We understand that every organization is unique, and we create plans from scratch to ensure they meet your specific needs. By offering tailored benefits, we help companies foster an inclusive environment where every employee feels supported and valued.