Celebrating visibility: The power of LGBTQ+ presence

The visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals challenges the status quo and forges pathways of empathy and understanding within our diverse communities.

LGBTQ+ visibility is more than just a statement; it's a catalyst for change. It challenges the status quo and forges pathways of empathy and understanding within our diverse communities. At Mott MacDonald, we recognise the transformative impact of visibility on personal well-being, social progress, and the ongoing battle against discrimination.

Today, we’re all connected worldwide, and LGBTQ+ people play a key role in shaping how we think and feel about each other. They help us to dismantle biases and foster an inclusive environment for all. The joyful celebrations during Pride Month and the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people show us that being seen and heard is a powerful way to support and educate others, and to help people feel strong and confident.

Last year, our Advancing LGBTQ+ group offered a lanyard for colleagues to wear with pride in our offices across the globe.

Here is what some of our people said about it:

- "The lanyard is more than an accessory; it's a beacon of comfort. It signals a safe space for me to be my true self, especially when expressing my queer identity feels daunting."

- "While I've shied away from discussing my LGBTQ+ identity at work, a simple lanyard speaks volumes. It's a silent declaration of my truth, inviting those in need to recognise me as an ally."

- "As a pansexual and gender non-conforming individual, an inclusive workplace spares me the repetitive 'coming out' narrative and prevents unintentional misgendering among colleagues."

- "For those of us who defy the gender binary or use unexpected pronouns, the freedom to express our identities without presumption is invaluable."

What steps have we taken so far to foster LGBTQ+ inclusion?

• Created and nurtured an LGBTQ+ affinity group with regional representatives.
• We raise awareness and educate about LGBTQ+ inclusion throughout the year.
• We have inclusive hiring practices and advocate for these within the industry.
• We revised our policies and procedures to incorporate inclusive and gender-neutral language.
• Our Advancing LGBTQ+ network organises events for the community and allies, both online and in person.
• Our global pride lanyards offer a silent but powerful way to support the LGBTQ+ community every day.

A commitment to every day inclusivity

As we support and elevate the voices of the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month and beyond, we contribute to a world where identity is not a source of fear or discrimination.

This is an all-year-round mission and together, we’re building a future that honours diversity and the right to our authentic selves.