"You are SAFE With Me” Campaign Amplifying LGBTQ+ Voices and Allyship

By Susan Wilhite, Senior Director Business Development for Bluefin International, Inc.

Read full article on Commercial Integrator

June is a month of vibrant colors and profound significance for the LGBTQ+ community. Designated as LGBT Pride Month, it roots back to the Stonewall riots of June 1969, which was a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. Patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City were tired of enduring police raids and discrimination, so they decided to fight back. This uprising sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, igniting a fire that continues to burn brightly today. 

For WAVIT, Pride Month is not merely a time for colorful parades and festivities, but a poignant reminder of the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing fight for equality that the LGBTQ community faces every day. At the heart of our mission lies a profound commitment to championing inclusivity and equality for all. As a women's association deeply rooted in empowerment and solidarity, we stand proudly in support of the LGBTQ community during this Pride Month and beyond.

In the words of Audre Lorde, "It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences." This Pride Month, let us celebrate the beautiful tapestry of humanity in all its diversity, and continue our journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Pride Month is a celebration of visibility, authenticity, and resilience. At WAVIT, one of the steps we are taking is at this year’s InfoComm and passing out “You Are Safe with Me” pins. The campaign originated from a simple yet profound idea: to create visible symbols of safety and support that LGBTQ+ individuals can recognize and trust. If you see me or any of the WAVIT Board, please ask them for your pin. We’d love the opportunity to connect and get your support.

As we embrace June, let's explore more ways to embrace Pride Month and show support. Here are just a few:  

1. Attending Pride events shows visible support for the community and amplifies their message of equality.
2. Being an ally plays a crucial role in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. By actively listening to individual’s experiences, standing up against discrimination and advocating for inclusion are just a few ways to be an ally.
3. Volunteer to support their initiatives, from organizing events to provide resources and support services can help strengthen community bonds.
4. Educating yourself by learning the terminology, understanding the diverse experiences and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community can help foster change and engage in meaningful conversations.
5. Become an advocate by using your voice and influence to support LGBTQ+ rights in your personal and professional worlds.
6. Support industry groups and events that promote the LGBTQ+ community with inclusivity. 

This Pride Month, we reaffirm our commitment to amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, advocating for policy changes that protect their rights, and providing support to those in need. We celebrate the courage and resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals who have fought for equality and paved the way for future generations. We honor the diversity of experiences within the LGBTQ+ community and recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all narrative.

As allies, we understand the importance of listening, learning, and amplifying marginalized voices. We acknowledge that our role is to support and uplift LGBTQ+ individuals, rather than speaking over them. We strive to create inclusive spaces within our organization where all members feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their whole selves to the table.

As June unfolds, let's come together as allies, advocates, and champions of equality. Let's embrace the spirit of Pride Month and continue to march forward on the path toward a more inclusive and just society for all.