Why LGBT+ Pride still matters

June typically marks the beginning of Pride season across the world and in the UK, celebrations roll over well into August. A happy time, most of the time. This year, however, COVID-19 and the recent events that have highlighted the racial injustice impacting black people, it is understandable that for many this doesn’t feel a time for celebration.

And yet, it is exactly now that we need to be visible the most.

The first Pride began as a riot. The Stonewall uprising of June 1969 helped create the LGBT+ movement that we know today.

So, for all of us, we can use this time to reflect on the importance of achieving true equality, think about how we can be educated and educate, and speak up for the things that matter and that must change. 

Pride is also about community, love and hope. So, let’s be good listeners and good allies and full-heartedly support people who may need it. We can use this moment as an opportunity to try and make this world a little better. 

And yes, Pride is still a celebration. Let’s show pride for what we have and who we are – whoever you love - be proud.

In previous years, my JLL LGBT+ colleagues and allies have been proud to march in Pride parades across the country, hosted breakfast events with our LGBT+ peers and allies and decorated our offices for colleagues and clients to see. While social distancing and home working may have curtailed our activities this year – staying in does not mean we cannot still be visible! 

So, let’s speak up against intolerance of any kind. And commit to creating inclusive communities, teams and workplaces for today and the future.

A diverse and inclusive world is a better world.

Stay safe and happy Pride!

JLL’s internal LGBT+ and Ally employee network - Building Pride - is open to all and looks to support and empower LGBT+ professionals to reach their full potential. We also have a Gender Balance network, Working Parents network and our Race for Change network which represents our Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic colleagues. Our ambition is to promote a positive, respectful, equal and fun environment for all our people and to champion and encourage a more diverse property industry.