Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Pride Month: 4 Effective PR strategies for LGBTQ+ Inclusion
June is Pride Month, an opportune time for our communities to have important conversations around inclusivity in honor of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising. The purpose of the commemorative month, recognized since 1994, is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals have had on history; locally, nationally, and internationally.
During this month, many organizations choose to showcase their support for the LGBTQ+ community and promote inclusivity through marketing, events, and educational content.
Through our work at Violet PR, we champion the celebration of this annual occasion through the thoughtful utilization of effective public relations (PR) strategies.
As a certified LGBT Business Enterprise with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Violet PR has committed to helping spread the news about the economic impact of LGBTQ people everywhere. By leveraging the power of media relations and storytelling, organizations can help normalize inclusion, amplify their commitment to diversity, foster a more accepting workplace culture, and engage with the LGBTQ+ community in meaningful, long-lasting ways. Here are a few of the most effective public relations approaches we advocate for through our public relations work.
Authentic Storytelling and Representation
One of the most powerful PR tactics is to share authentic stories that resonate with the LGBTQ+ community. Highlight the experiences and achievements of LGBTQ+ citizens, community groups, entrepreneurs, workers or partners in your organization or your region. It’s particularly impactful to collaborate and showcase local LGBTQ+ influencers, advocates or organizations to amplify these narratives and ensure accurate representation. By giving a platform to diverse voices, where they can speak freely and openly, you not only demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity but also foster a deeper connection with the LGBTQ+ community.
Employee Engagement and Education
Engage your employees or members in Pride Month celebrations by organizing educational workshops, panel discussions or employee resource group events. Invite LGBTQ+ speakers or experts to share their experiences and insights, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for diversity within your organization’s team or member/investor groups. Encourage employees to participate in these events and share their stories and perspectives, creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.
Community Partnerships and Sponsorships
Collaborate with, or contribute to, local or national LGBTQ+ organizations, charities, or events to demonstrate your commitment to the community. Sponsor Pride parades, festivals, or conferences, and leverage these reputable partnerships to amplify your message of inclusivity. Engage with LGBTQ+ media outlets and influencers as a part of the partnership to share your organization's initiatives and support for the community.
Social Media Engagement and Advocacy
Leverage social media platforms to amplify your Pride Month messaging and share your support for the LGBTQ+ community. Repost and reshare community messages to help them reach a wider audience through your contacts. Share inspiring stories, educational resources, event information, and updates on your organization's initiatives. As a part of this social engagement, participate in relevant hashtag campaigns and engage with LGBTQ+ influencers and advocates to broaden your reach and foster meaningful conversations.
By implementing these four PR strategies, organizations can effectively demonstrate their support for the LGBTQ+ community, foster a more inclusive workplace culture, and engage with diverse audiences during Pride Month and beyond. Remember, authenticity, representation, and a genuine commitment to inclusivity are key to building trust and fostering meaningful connections with the LGBTQ+ community.