GCI, led by its PRIDE Business Resource Group celebrated Pride month in a big way this June. The group, open to all GCI employees, is fostering a work culture where every LGBTQ2+ employee feels welcome, heard, and comfortable being their true, authentic selves in the workplace. The PRIDE BRG is a key part of GCI’s overall Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program, which launched in 2021.
We kicked off Pride month at GCI with a PRIDE BRG mixer, an evening of celebration and inclusivity. This event allowed members of the LGBTQ2+ community, allies and supporters to come together in a welcoming and fun environment.
The family event featured mocktails from Cafecito Bonito and drag artists who captivated the audience with educational trivia, insightful discussions and vibrant performances. It was a wonderful start to a month dedicated to celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of belonging for everyone.
In addition to this employee event, GCI’s philanthropy arm GCI Gives sponsored Pride events around the state including the Alaskan Aids Assistance Association Rainbow Run, the Anchorage Pride Parade, Dillingham Pride March, Juneau Pride Foundation and Fairbanks Pride Month.
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The Rainbow Run, organized by the Alaskan AIDS Assistance Association (Four A’s), brings together individuals from all walks of life to run, walk, and express their support for a vital cause. A team of our employees hosted a swag booth on the park strip, and the water station at Valley of the Moon Park. They cheered on runners and engaged with the community helping raise awareness and funds for the nonprofit organizations Four A’s and Choosing Our Roots.
Throughout June, GCI Gives provided in-kind donations as prizes at various Pride events across the state including the Fairbanks Queer Collective, Dillingham Pride March and the Juneau Pride Foundation.
Our month was rounded out at the Anchorage Pride Parade and festival, a cornerstone event for the LGBTQ2+ community in Anchorage. The PRIDE BRG made their first parade float this year and helped staff a swag booth on the park strip.
We are proud of the work the PRIDE BRG does all year, and especially during Pride month, to stand with the LGBTQ2+ community. Everyone deserves to be respected, valued and celebrated for who they are, and Pride month is a reminder of how far we’ve come and a catalyst for conversations about where we still have room to grow.