Pride Month is an annual observance in June that celebrates the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City and marks the anniversary of the modern LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. The observance began as a week-long commemoration by gay activists in New York, but grew into a month-long event that includes parades and marches across North America and around the world. While you will likely have a few activities lined up for the entire month to celebrate Pride Month either as a big company or a small startup, it’s important to also remember the “why” behind this month-long celebration. Here’s why you should celebrate Pride Month at work.

Helps companies attract the right talent

It is important for companies to show their support for the LGBTQIA+ community and celebrate pride month. This is because people are more likely to feel accepted, respected, and valued at a company that celebrates diversity and inclusion. By doing so, they will be able to attract the best talent who will want to work for them because of their values and beliefs as a company.

It’s an opportunity to educate your team about Pride Month, inclusivity, and diversity

Pride month is a time to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and educate your team about what it means to be LGBTQIA+. Pride Month Trivia is a fun way to learn something new with your team while building relationships. Educating your team about the community will help them understand the challenges they face. They will be more understanding and accepting of their co-workers, which in turn will create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed and accepted.

Champions and implements diversity and inclusion in your work environment

Diversity and inclusion are important considerations in the workplace and can be seen across industries. Apart from enabling a conducive work environment and creating a happy workforce, diversity also drives problem-solving, innovation, and collaboration, all of which are critical to the success of any organization. While these efforts should be part of your organizational policies throughout and be acted upon at all times, Pride Month offers an opportunity to revisit previous efforts, put in place more measures, and start new inclusive policies based on changes in the community over the years.

Shows solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community

The LGBTQIA+ community is one of the most vulnerable groups in society. Therefore, it’s important to show solidarity with the community and actively support them.