EP 125: PRIDE- Celebrating Diversity & Inclusion While Creating Awareness of LGBTQ Issues In this episode, Jose Miguel Longo discusses the significance of Pride Month and the ongoing issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community. He highlights the importance of creating awareness and education around LGBTQ+ issues, including discrimination, mental health, and anti-trans legislation. Jose emphasizes the need for allies to stand up and support the community, and provides tips on how to create inclusive spaces at work and support LGBTQ+ youth. He concludes with powerful quotes from Harvey Milk and encourages listeners to celebrate diversity and stand together. Takeaways Pride Month is not just a celebration, but an opportunity to create awareness and education around LGBTQ+ issues. Discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community is still prevalent, with high rates of violence, suicide attempts, and workplace discrimination. Allies play a crucial role in supporting the LGBTQ+ community by educating themselves, participating in LGBTQ+ events, and creating inclusive spaces at work. Supporting LGBTQ+ youth and advocating for inclusive anti-bullying policies is essential. The fight for LGBTQ+ rights is ongoing, and it requires individuals to come together, stand up against discrimination, and demand equality. Call to Action for Each Area   Support Mental Health   If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to LGBTQ-friendly mental health resources.   Advocate for Policy Change Contact your local representatives and advocate for LGBTQ-inclusive policies. Your voice matters!   Create Inclusive Workplaces   Work with your employer to implement inclusive policies and support ERGs. Foster a workplace where everyone feels safe and valued.   Be an Active Ally   Educate yourself, speak out against discrimination, and actively support your LGBTQ friends and colleagues. Participate in events and show your support visibly. Resources & Websites  Creating Inclusive Workplaces - HRC: https://www.hrc.org/resources/best-practices-for-creating-an-inclusive-workplace Coming Out at Work - PFLAG: https://pflag.org/resource/coming-out-at-work The Economic Impact of LGBTQ Inclusion - World Economic Forum: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/06/businesses-lgbtq-inclusion-make-money/ LGBTQ Business Leaders - Fast Company https://www.fastcompany.com/3066375/the-most-influential-lgbtq-leaders-in-tech Guide to Being a Straight Ally - GLAAD: https://www.glaad.org/publications/allys-guide Supporting LGBTQ Youth - The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/guide/a-guide-to-being-an-ally-to-lgbtq-youth/ Motivational Quote   - ”We are all human beings, and we all deserve the same respect and dignity. Let’s stand together and celebrate our diversity.” – Unknown Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Deeper Conversations 07:42 The Significance of Pride Month and its Origins 11:59 Issues and Discrimination in the LGBTQ+ Community 14:34 The Impact of Politics on LGBTQ+ Rights 29:10 Celebrating Diversity and Standing Together Keywords #PrideMonth #LGBTQissues #discrimination #mentalhealth #anti-translegislation, #allies #inclusivespaces #LGBTQyouth #LGBTQ #Queer #Gay #Lesbian #trans #bisexual