To celebrate Pride 2024, we are focusing on “Every Day Pride”, the daily experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals in all aspects of their lives. For this special Pride edition of Inside Edelman, we profiled members of our global community to highlight their unique experiences and point of view as they reflect on what it means to be LGBTQIA+ within the firm and beyond.
What does "Everyday Pride" mean to you?
“Everyday Pride” is an aspiration – both personally and societally. Even though I’m largely confident in my identity, I still have days where I find myself grappling with internalized shame. We’re all on a journey toward “Everyday Pride” where we can live openly and authentically, supported by inclusive practices, legal protections, and a culture of acceptance and celebration.
In your opinion, are non-LGBTQIA+ allies fully aware of the obstacles faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals? How can they raise their awareness?
Everyone has their blind spots, and even members of the LGBTQIA+ community have a lot to learn from each other about our own unique experiences. Raise your awareness by listening to LGBTQIA+ voices – those of folks you know and those in the media or pop culture. Most importantly, do your own research – there’s a ton of educational resources out there for allies!
Can you share any positive examples or best practices you've seen in the workplace that effectively support LGBTQIA+ employees?
Comprehensive non-discrimination policies that explicitly include sexual orientation and gender identity and inclusive healthcare benefits that cover gender-affirming care. For a more day-to-day example, start off projects or meetings with introductions that include pronouns.
What advice would you give to young LGBTQIA+ individuals who are just starting their careers?
Your unique perspective is a strength. At my first job, I thought of my sexual identity as something to hide – I never once considered it being an asset. But over the years, I’ve found that my unique identity lets me do even better work for clients like Whitman-Walker Health and the CDC. So, I’d say push yourself to see your identity is an asset, and by bringing your whole self to work, you can inspire and uplift those around you.
Kelsey Coehn is the Senior Vice President of the Edelman DXI team based in the U.S.
