Celebrating shared diversity is what Pride Month is about during June. It’s a time to recognize and honor the struggles and achievements of our LGBTQ+ community. It’s also a time to recognize we’re all in this together.
Diversity and inclusion are essential elements of our culture at System Soft. And it’s important those at System Soft in the LGBTQ+ community feel they belong.
We’re proud to foster equality in our workplace, where everyone is free to be authentic pursuing career goals, honing talents, improving skills and taking care of our clients. We inspire everyone to be their full selves, both at work and in the communities where we each live and play.
We believe when we draw and celebrate the wisdom of a workforce recruited from all segments of society, we can better understand and meet the needs of our clients. This allows us to strengthen our culture and increase our ability to meet their business needs. When you create an inclusive environment, everyone wins.
With resolve to ensure safety and respect for our LGBTQ+ colleagues and global communities, we take great pride highlighting and emphasizing their contributions to the technology industry, as well as other major fields and professions.
We especially revere trailblazers within our local communities and recognize those in the LGBTQ+ community making a difference at System Soft. Join us as we celebrate Pride Month and those who make an impact.
Trevor Bynum
Our next employee spotlight during Pride Month illuminates Trevor Bynum, a copywriter on the Creative Team at System Soft. During the past year, Trevor, who deals with words, words and more words, has worked on a variety of projects, including content for client websites, internal websites, RFPs, company emails, presentations, and sales and marketing collateral.
Trevor proudly answered four questions about the influences and celebrations of Pride Month. So, here’s a bit more about his thoughts in his own words.
What’s something you’re excited to do in celebrating your identity and Pride?
I may get some flak for this one, but I’m not a big fan of parades, in general. You know, standing in the hot sun for hours on end, dodging beads and other tchotchkes being thrown at my head. (My daughter loves it though!)
But seriously, I really do enjoy celebrating Pride with the rest of the LGBTQ+ community, and, of course, the advocates who come out and show their love and support.
The Pride activities I love most are the street fairs, music and food. I love me a good festival! But my favorite Pride celebrations are the small parties with my family and close friends. It’s those personal connections and support that mean the most to me.
What’s something you think people can do, especially during Pride Month, to gain awareness about important issues impacting the global LGBTQ+ community?
You don’t have to march in a parade or cover yourself in rainbows to learn about LGBTQ+ issues. I think it can be as simple as listening.
Talk to someone in the community about their experience and struggles. If you don’t know someone or don’t feel comfortable asking, then read about some of the trailblazers in the gay community and the impact they’ve had on cultural and political issues.
I think even just a little bit of knowledge, understanding and empathy can go a long way.
About what one LGBTQ+ community misconception would you like to educate others?
At the risk of sounding a bit political, the biggest misconception in my mind is the so-called “gay agenda” that gets tossed around so much.
For me, personally, the only agenda is the fight for equality.
I’m not asking that people change their beliefs; I’m asking that they enhance their understanding. I’m not asking to be at the head of the table; I’m just asking for a seat there. I’m not asking for superior rights; I’m simply asking for equal rights.
What does it mean to you that System Soft is celebrating Pride Month?
I am truly honored and relieved to work for a company that celebrates diversity. I can say, with all honesty, that I’ve never felt uncomfortable being myself at System Soft, even from my very first interview.
It’s very important to me to work for a company that treats everyone with dignity and respect. I love working with such a diverse group of people and learning about different cultures and ways of life.
There is no doubt in my mind that System Soft walks the walk of diversity and inclusion, and I couldn’t be happier to celebrate Pride with System Soft!
Pride Month Journey on Social
Throughout June, follow and interact with System Soft’s commemorative journey on our social media. Across our platforms, we will highlight famous quotes, fun facts, infographics and inspirational stories. Check out our LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
We will also spotlight other System Soft employees who are part of the LGBTQ+ community on our blog, as we hold fast to a commitment of our mission and core values, appreciating the support and kindness we give to each other.