As someone who has spent decades working with global companies to build more inclusive and culturally agile workforces, I’m struck by how complex acknowledging Pride Month can be on global teams.
In some regions, Pride is publicly celebrated; in others, even acknowledging it can put people at risk. So, as a global leader, I realize how Pride Month is an opportunity for thoughtful leadership when you’re dealing with international teams. It takes cultural awareness, intentional choices, and above all, a commitment to dignity, allyship and respect for every employee, everywhere.
Pride Month, observed each June, traces its roots to the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City, a pivotal event in the global LGBTQ+ movement. What began as a protest has grown into an international call for dignity and belonging. But for multinational organizations, celebrating Pride is uniquely complex. In some countries, LGBTQ+ identities remain criminalized or culturally taboo, posing real risks for employees and employers alike.
So how can intercultural teams recognize Pride Month while respecting the realities of each location? Here’s how inclusive teams can create meaningful moments that honor both individual identity and cultural context.
Start With Core Values, Not Just Visibility
The underlying value of respect for individuals and differences is something we can celebrate everywhere. Pride is about upholding universal values like respect, dignity, and safety. Global leaders should begin by reaffirming the company’s commitment to inclusion, while making clear that local context matters. Some employees may wish to celebrate openly; others may prefer privacy.
Acknowledge Cultural Differences Thoughtfully
In today’s multicultural workplace, cultural intelligence is key. Responsible global leaders are aware of local laws and customs since the acceptance of Pride ranges from embracing it and celebrating these differences to being downright illegal, carrying with it severe personal risks. So, it’s imperative that managers are aware of and sensitive to local practices while supporting and respecting individuals.
Final Thought
Pride has three important messages for global managers:
- It’s incumbent upon you to learn and appreciate local cultural norms and laws.
- Pride Month gives leaders an opportunity to reinforce the value of respect for all lifestyles.
- Provides teams the chance to create a culture of inclusion on global teams.
Celebrating Pride on a global scale is a valuable opportunity to model empathy, intentional inclusion, and a willingness to learn and appreciate how to demonstrate respect for differences in cultures around the world. Explore how to become a better advocate across borders with our sample course: Becoming an Ally.
