[Out & Equal Mini-Series] How to be an Authentic Ally w/ Jean-Marie Navetta, Out & Equal VP of Learning Programs

Imagine Belonging at Work

Allies. In workplace settings, there are times when most of us need them. Consider this scenario; you’re in a meeting, and you’re about to take a calculated risk to share an unpopular idea. As soon as you complete your thought, one of your colleagues quickly responds, complimenting you on your idea, and asking you to share more. That’s an act of allyship.

Conversely, in that very same meeting, you can take an act of allyship by showing up for a different colleague when another person says something unskillful to them. Without a beat, you can simply say, “You just said [insert statement]. Could you explain more specifically what you meant?” That simple response should do the trick to shine a light on the harm they caused.

When it comes to showing up for your LGBTQ+ colleagues, acts of allyship in workplace settings are life-saving. They help build the foundation of increased safety and trust that can get more of LGBTQ+ employees closer to experiencing that elusive sense of belonging at work. Yet, for some of the budding LGBTQ+ allies out there, being an authentic ally causes some pause. Some may ask themselves, “what if I cause even more harm,” and instead retreat into silence.

To help build up the confidence and skills of these emerging LGBTQ+ workplace allies, I am excited to speak with Jean-Marie Navetta who will help us answer this big question: What does it take to be an authentic ally during these challenging times?

If you’re unfamiliar with Jean-Marie, for nearly 20 years she’s worked in the LGBTQ+ movement to help engage people both outside and inside of the community to be part of the work of building on policy change to transform culture to become more actively inclusive. She’s spent 17 years with PFLAG National leading their work in this area and for the past year, she’s continued that effort at Out & Equal.

Together, during our conversation, you will:

• Learn why performative acts of allyship, or merely calling yourself an ally, without taking any action is the fastest way to erode the trust of your LGBTQ+ colleagues.

• Gain fresh insights on accessible actions you can take to show up as an LGBTQ+ ally - some of these are more easy and significant than you think.

• Explore new allyship practices you can test out with close friends and family members to to build up the confidence necessary to overcome the comfort of silence.

This interview was designed to support people like you - visionary leaders, and those on their way to joining us. Savor this insightful talk, and if you’re looking for more ways to connect with inspiring leaders like Jean-Marie, be sure to join our Belonging Membership Community - a community of practice committed to putting our values of belonging, community, and collaboration into action. Members have the unique opportunity to connect with guests like Jean-Marie for 1:1 laser coaching sessions.

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Out & Equal: https://outandequal.org/