Insights #Pride2024: Are you different, equal, included?

Bonjour. My name is Caroline, and I'm the Industrial and Life Sciences business unit coordinator at AtkinsRéalis in Canada. When I joined AtkinsRéalis in 2009, it wasn't just a career move. It was a decision to align myself with a company that shared my vision of a better future for our planet and its inhabitants. The culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I) at AtkinsRéalis also resonates with me. It makes me feel I truly belong here.

"For Pride 2024, this blog is dedicated to the allies in our Equilibrium ERG, whose support enhances our LGBTQ+ community."

Why I joined our LGBTQ+ ERG Equilibrium

Values like inclusion, caring, fairness, and diversity have always resonated strongly with me. So, it was important for me to get involved with the Equilibrium employee resource group (ERG). It provides a supportive and safe environment for AtkinsRéalis LGBTQ+ employees and their allies through advocacy, mentoring, education, and representation. This inclusive mission has a positive and equitable impact on the company's culture.

"By providing a safe psychological space for all members of an organization and respecting each person's individuality, a team emerges stronger and more successful."

Why LGBTQ+ allies are invaluable to our cause

Allies play a vital role in representing members of the LGBTQ+ community. They raise LGBTQ+ issues at every opportunity, explaining concepts to others and debunking myths with reality. They can also keep colleagues up-to-date on campaigns and special days, like Pride Month, International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, Pride parades, etc. They encourage their colleagues to call out social injustices and discrimination, especially addressing their negative impacts on LGBTQ+ people. They keep us encouraged with their continued interest and support.

At AtkinsRéalis, we've made ED&I systemic

I've noticed that the AtkinsRéalis culture ensures a global policy of respect and inclusion so that employees can be themselves and do their jobs authentically, which supports LGBTQ+ employees. In addition, the management team encourages to speak out against inequities and intolerance of all kinds observed in the workplace, which supports the LGBTQ+ cause outside of Equilibrium.

Learn more about #DifferentMakesADifference: how AtkinsRéalis promotes Equality, Diversity & Inclusion.