In June, as we celebrate Pride Month, Global Skills stands in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Participation in Pride Month is an opportunity for us all to demonstrate support and solidarity. If you are looking for ways to get involved, see below:

Attend an event: The Sydney Pride Festival runs throughout the month of June. This month-long event aims to raise awareness, educate, and support LGBTQIA+ charities, organisations, and businesses, while fostering compassion and courage within the community and beyond. For more info, go to https://www.sydneypride.com

Be an ally: The LGBTQIA+ ally guide from Amnesty International includes helpful definitions, simple explainers, inspiring stories, practical tips, and resources to help you become a better ally in your workplace or personal life. Download it at: https://action.amnesty.org.au/lgbtqia-plus-ally-guide

Be a Welcoming Place: If you run a business or service, consider becoming a member of ACON’s Welcome Here Project. Global Skills joined in 2021 and each of our offices proudly displays rainbow stickers and the ‘Welcome Here’ charter. These are visual representations of our commitment to creating positive change in our local communities and celebrating LGBTQIA+ diversity every day of the year. For more information on joining the ACON Welcome Here Project, visit: https://www.welcomehere.org.au

Other ways you can get involved include:

• Learning about LGBTQIA+ history.
• Supporting LGBTQIA+ legislation, organisations, businesses, and services.
• Discussing LGBTQIA+ issues and challenging prejudices.

Glenn Hansen the co-ordinator of Sydney Pride Festival summarises, “Pride Month is a time for us to come together as a community, to celebrate our diversity, and to advocate for the rights and acceptance of all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Through compassion and courage, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone.”