Pride Month shines a light on LGBTQIA+ inclusion, but true progress demands action that lasts beyond June.
Each year, as June arrives, India joins the global celebration of Pride Month (also referred to as LGBTQ Month) with rainbow-themed campaigns, inclusive messaging, and vibrant parades. From social media posts to webinars on inclusion in the workplace, the Pride Month offers an important opportunity to celebrate identities, acknowledge struggles, and champion the rights of LGBTQIA+ communities.
As the month comes to an end and July begins, this momentum fades, raises a critical question: Is our commitment to LGBTQIA+ seasonal? If not, how do we ensure our inclusion commitment lasts beyond the social media hashtags?
Beyond Symbolism: Embedding Inclusion Deeply
Indian organizations have seen significant progress in their workplace policies, since Section 377 was passed in 2018; including, employee resource groups and gender inclusive language. But these policy changes are just the tip of the iceberg. The true challenge lies in moving beyond these gestures. A Pride campaign during the month does no justice to inclusion as it must be integrated into various aspects of business strategy, from recruitment and career development to leadership culture and supplier partnerships.
The Role of Everyday Allyship
The Indian context of allyship accounts for deep-rooted norms that often quieten the LGBTQ voices. Allyship changes this context; true allies challenge biases and advocate for policies that reflect the realities of generational diversity at workplace. Additionally, creating a safe workplace adds to diversity and inclusion. Ensuring employees (particularly from the LGBTQ community) feel heard and empowered beyond the Pride Month are some of the allyship actions.
The Need for Systemic Change
Though organizations have progressed with policies, the country has some gaps in legal protections. For instance, same sex marriage continues to be unrecognized and anti-discrimination laws are incomplete. Campaigns during the Pride Month should serve as a catalyst to for broader reforms that impact not just offices, but homes, schools, and communities.
Pride Month: A Year-Long Commitment
The true measure of inclusion in the workplace — and beyond — is not how we celebrate Pride Month, but how we embed respect, equity, and opportunity throughout the year. It’s time to move from momentary gestures to lasting commitment and change. Let’s build an environment where LGBTQIA+ people are not just visible during Pride, but valued all year.
Write to us at info@avtarinc.in to know more about gender inclusive policies at your workplace.
