Team,

I wanted to share a personal story with you all. I came across a LinkedIn post yesterday from a former colleague. It was about his experience raising a gay son. What struck me was his raw honesty. He admitted to initially struggling with his son’s lifestyle and confronting internal conflicts born from decades of societal conditioning.

The part that really got to me was when he wrote that it wasn’t his son who needed to change, it was him who needed to change for his son. He wrote that his son was perfect just as he was. As his father, it was his role to shed preconceived notions. That is a powerful realization that many LGBTQIA+ community members grapple with today. Even organizations close to my heart, like the Boy Scouts, took more time than they should have to fully open their doors and hearts to everyone.

This is another area where I am proud of Televerde. This company has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to acceptance. Regardless of who you are or how you live your life, you’ve always been welcome and supported here. That’s a promise that will never change. I’d like to acknowledge our transgender colleagues, family members, and friends. We know that transgender people face unique struggles today, often confronting severe discrimination, violence, and exclusion. I want you to know that at Televerde, you are part of our family, and we see you for who you truly are. You are welcome here, you are valued here, and you will always have a place here to simply be yourself.

June is Pride Month, a time when we collectively recognize and celebrate the impact our LGBTQIA+ colleagues, friends, and families have on our lives and communities. It’s not just about parades and rainbow flags, though those are important too. It’s about recognizing the struggles, the victories, and the vibrant diversity that the LGBTQIA+ community brings to our world.

But why is this relevant to Televerde? Well, it’s simple. Our strength lies in our diversity. We thrive when we foster an inclusive culture that respects and appreciates differences in race, color, gender, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, or disability. We remain true to our values when caring for all people is at the core of all we do.

To those in our Televerde family who identify as LGBTQIA+, know that you are seen, heard, and belong. To the rest of us who are allies, thank you for standing up and speaking out. Allyship isn’t just about being a friend, it’s about striving for understanding and equality every day.

So, let’s celebrate Pride Month with open hearts and open minds. Let’s also continue to have each other’s backs and further a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive workplace.

Happy Pride Month, everyone. Go Televerde!

Chris