Insights Championing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion with passion and impact
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) are critical pillars in
our organization, shaping an inclusive and welcoming workplace.
To highlight the remarkable strides made in embedding ED&I in everything we do, and in conjunction with Pride Month, we interviewed Kyle A. Kellogg, an LGBTQ+ employee leading the Equilibrium North America Employee Resource Group (ERG). Let’s discover his inspiring journey.
Surprising
acceptance
Kyle's journey within
the engineering and construction industry has exposed him to the challenges
faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. However, he has also found the industry, often
perceived as homophobic, to be unexpectedly accepting.
The
inherent diversity and close-knit nature of construction teams at AtkinsRéalis have
fostered a shared understanding and collaboration. This, in turn, often leads
to a greater acceptance of differences. Kyle acknowledges that not everyone will
have the same positive experience and believes that more work needs to be done
to foster an open and inclusive environment for all.
A
transformative experience
A traumatic event where
Kyle was the target of homophobia – during a construction course given by one
of AtkinsRéalis ’s external providers – revealed the unwavering support of his
colleagues and leadership in our organization. This experience ignited a
passion within him to establish a safe space and a community of like-minded
individuals. Inspired by a successful UK-based employee resource group, Kyle
joined forces with fellow employees and launched Equilibrium in the United
States in September 2021. Starting with a modest group of 10 to 15 members,
Equilibrium rapidly grew to 147 members in the United States and Canada.
While Equilibrium
serves as a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals, nearly half of its members are
passionate allies who enthusiastically lend their support, recognizing the
importance of standing up for equality and inclusion.
The
importance of leadership
As an
employee-driven initiative, Equilibrium benefits from a global sponsor, Mike
Newton (SVP, Human Resources, USA), who advocates for Equilibrium and secures
funding for their events. Additionally, Érik Ryan (EVP, Marketing, Strategy and
External Relations) acts as the global ally to LGBTQ+ employees and, to Kyle’s
words, goes above and beyond in his support, acting not only as an ally but
also as a champion.
The
involvement of leaders for ERGs is crucial as they lend credibility and
legitimacy to the groups they get involved with, driving meaningful change and
encouraging broader participation.
Building
trust and overcoming fear
Joining an ED&I group can be daunting, but Equilibrium actively cultivates
an environment that fosters trust and understanding. This ERG strives to create
an open, accepting, and retaliation-free space where individuals can embrace
their true selves without fear of judgment.
Kyle
understands that some employees may question the need for an LGBTQ+ safe space,
for Pride parades or marches, especially if they perceive equal rights have been
achieved in many countries.
For him,
these are opportunities to embrace diversity and show support for fellow
humans. Pride parades offer a tangible, in-person platform to stand together
and combat homophobia. They provide a space to amplify voices, address
remaining challenges, and inspire everyone to foster positive change. By
marching, they not only represent their organization but also send a powerful
message to potential future employees and aspiring engineers who may be
hesitant due to perceived homophobia.
Embrace
the journey
Kyle's journey
within the engineering industry sheds light on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+
individuals, but also the power of support, allyship, and proactive initiatives
like Equilibrium. Through their collective efforts, Equilibrium members and
allies exemplify the transformative impact of ED&I initiatives in our
workplace and inspire others to embrace their true selves in pursuit of
fulfilling careers in our organization. Bas du formulaire
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