This month we celebrate Pride Month. Pride Month commemorates another period in history when unrest resulted in genuine progress and change. The first anniversary of the Stonewall riots which happened in New York City on June 28, 1969 was celebrated by demonstrations in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco. This evolved into Pride Month which holds parades that are a mix of politics and celebration. It promotes visibility of the LGBTQ+ community. It also serves as a huge megaphone for LGBTQ+ needs and rights and continues to give the LGBTQ+ movement a voice. Pride Parades today include hundreds of thousands of people across the nation.
We asked Bobby Smith, Manager of System HR Compliance and Immigration and Chair of LGBTQ+Allies ERG, to share his thoughts.
How would you describe the importance of Pride Month?
To me, Pride Month is an important time for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. It is a time when we can recognize and celebrate the things that make us different as employees and community members. I also think that it is particularly important for those who do not have support in their own families and community. Celebrating Pride is a clear signal to those who need our support that there is an overwhelming amount of love and compassion here to lift them up.
How do you celebrate Pride Month?
I celebrate Pride by doing my part to make this world more diverse, equitable and inclusive. I work with organizations to build support systems for members of the LGBTQ+ community around the world. Inclusivity requires intentional acts. I am proud to be the current Chair of our LGBTQ+Allies ERG and dedicate a good amount of energy to ensure that this ERG is a resource for all our current and future members.
What does being a member of the LGBTQ+Allies ERG mean to you?
The LGBTQ+Allies ERG means a great deal to me. It is a signal to our employees and patients that we are an organization that does not simply tolerate those things that makes us different, but truly celebrates them. My hope for this ERG is that it tells the story in our communications and actions that we are an amazing place for members of the LGBTQ+ community to come and do their best work. Most importantly, my hope is that our patients here in Houston and around the world feel welcome here and can bring their whole self to our organization in those critical times where they need the world class medical care we provide.
For the first time the OPC’s lights will reflect the Pride colors during the first week of June. Please share the significance of that.
It highlights Houston Methodist’s commitment to DEI. It is a clear signal that Houston Methodist is determined to make our organization a more just, equitable and inclusive place for all. The OPC Pride lighting is an important milestone on our pathway to unparalleled.
Are you interested in learning more about our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)? Text ERG to 45991.
We want to celebrate with you for all awareness months and holidays. Please email theofficeofdei@houstonmethodist.org if we have regrettably overlooked any.
Join the conversation on Twitter @HMethodistCares.
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