In the words of George Takei – actor, author and LGBTQ+ activist – “We should indeed keep calm in the face of difference and live our lives in a state of inclusion and wonder at the diversity of humanity.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of Pride Month, celebrated annually in June in remembrance of the Stonewall riots that took place in New York City in June 1969, marking a turning point in the movement for LGBTQ+ rights.
Pride Month is not just a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. It holds space to recognize the progress made towards LGBTQ+ equality, raise awareness about the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and promote acceptance.
As we celebrate, it is crucial to reflect on the challenges that the LGBTQ+ community faces and work toward a more inclusive and equitable society for all. At Micron, we understand that LGBTQ+ rights are human rights, and it is incumbent on everyone to speak out against discrimination and prejudice. We believe when we create a safe workplace, we accelerate the innovation we need for our business.
Micron's theme for 2023 Pride Month is "Pride in Work, Pride at Work.” It celebrates the company's dedication to excellence, innovation and inclusion. We will host noteworthy events for our employees this month, including a virtual film screening of “The Dads,” which will be followed by a fireside chat with director Luchina Fisher. Inspired by the film’s depiction of dads who are raising trans youth, we’re striving to facilitate an authentic conversation on topics that are often overlooked, and to create a safe and inclusive space where our team members can connect in conversation that will inspire understanding.
Micron aims to build mutually beneficial partnerships with businesses that are majority-owned by members of the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the value of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation, economic growth and social progress. As a testament to these efforts, Micron was recently honored as a Platinum Top Global Champion by WEConnect International, along with Disability:IN and the National LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. This prestigious distinction acknowledges organizations for achieving the highest percentages of non-U.S. diverse spending among all survey participants.
We are fully committed to a more just future for all — by championing and advancing fundamental human rights globally and in the communities we call home. Advocating for gender, racial and LGBTQ+ equality is one of our six DEI commitments. Over the past year Micron:
- Was recognized in India, Japan and the U.S. for our performance in indexes that measure inclusive policies and benefits that support LGBTQ+ team members.
- Collaborated with organizations in Taiwan to launch an LGBTQ+ index.
- Partnered with the Human Rights Campaign on multiple initiatives.
- Supported our PRIDE+Allies employee resource group (ERG), facilitating a team member letter-writing campaign endorsing the Respect for Marriage Act.
- Partnered with the Alliance for Global Inclusion to host and launch Beyond the Rainbow, an invitation-only forum with corporate CDIOs, Pride/LGBTQ+ leaders, allies, and executive sponsors. The interactive discussion focused on forging a path for true LGBTQ+ understanding and inclusion in the workplace. We listened to both corporate members and the LGBTQ+ community and brought them together in a positive way that focused on outcomes. Insights shared by our partners at PFLAG National/Straight for Equality emphasized the importance of leveraging data for intentional LGBTQ+ inclusion, equipping allies with learning resources and recognizing the critical need to defend progress and advocate for equality.
Building on the inclusive health care and family-building benefits we’ve offered our employees for years, we are proud this month to publish our first LGBTQ+ U.S. Benefits Guide, in partnership with our PRIDE+Allies ERG, so members of the community and their family members understand our investment in them through our company-provided benefits.
Pride Month serves as a reminder of the continued significance of embracing diversity, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and celebrating progress, while acknowledging the work that still remains to be done, Micron’s ongoing commitment is to create a more equitable world where everyone can live authentically.
