The Pride celebrations we know today are about promoting equality, self-affirmation and visibility of LGBTQ+ community. To kick off a month of Pride activities around Cambia’s markets and demonstrate our commitment to serving the diverse and inclusive needs of our communities, our PRIDE Employee Resource Group (PRIDE ERG) and allies raised rainbow flags over Cambia buildings for the month of June. We also spoke with several employees from our PRIDE ERG on what this month means to them, how they’re staying connected with community and more. Read some of their answers and perspectives below.
Jake Charlson (he/him)
Clinical Services Quality Assurance and PRIDE ERG Co-chair
I see Pride month as an opportunity to acknowledge how far the LGBTQ+ movement has come. It is a reminder of the sacrifices my community has made to ensure I get to live my truth and bring my authentic self everywhere. Pride is a platform to highlight the inequalities our community faces. To this day, Black Transgender Women remain the most at-risk population in our community, which includes being subjected to public shaming, intimidation and physical violence.
Pride is understanding, empathy and strength in numbers. It is a home for those without one and a safe place for those who feel forgotten. Pride is Me, Pride is You, Pride is all of us -- together as one. A space without judgement or fear; only love and celebration for our truths.
Julie Lindberg (she/her)
Vice President, Clinical Services and PRIDE ERG Executive Sponsor
What are some ways fellow Cambia employees and others can celebrate Pride and raise awareness about important issues facing the LGBTQ+ community?
One of the goals of the Pride movement and celebration is visibility. Recognizing colleagues who identify as LGBTQ+ with a simple statement of recognition such as “Happy Pride month” is a way of seeing each other and creating a culture of inclusion.
What challenges do you face when communicating about LGBTQ+ topics?
The LGBTQ+ community is incredibly diverse, including racial and ethnic diversity, cultural diversity, and diversity in gender and sexual orientation identification. We are simultaneously creating community while celebrating individual uniqueness. We are teachers and students all the time.
How do allies build trust and show support for the LGBTQ+ community?
Trust and support happen the same way for the LGBTQ+ community as other communities -- be aware of your biases, don’t make assumptions, ask questions respectfully and be open to being corrected.
What do you think people can do this Pride month to raise awareness about important issues that impact the global LGBTQ+ community?
Pride Month is a great opportunity to access information and resources on the issues important to the LGBTQ+ community because information tends to be much more available, so take advantage of the opportunities that come your way to learn. Additionally, make a note to ask an LGBTQ+ person in your life how they are celebrating Pride Month, what issues are important to them, how you can support them. We learn most from the loved ones in our lives, by being present and listening.
What resources do you recommend for LGBTQ+ folks?
Community is local so start by seeking resources in your area to get connected.
Do you recommend any resources for individuals to learn more about health equity in the LGBTQ+ community?
The Human Rights Campaign is a great organization to learn more about related to equality work for LGBTQ+ people including health care equality.
Miles Allen (he/him/his)
Buyer, Procurement
What does Pride month mean for you?
Pride, for me, means celebrating the courage and work that people in the LGBTQ+ community have leveraged to fully live our authentic lives.
Why did you join Cambia’s PRIDE ERG and how has it affected your work life (or beyond)?
I joined the Cambia PRIDE ERG to help make friends and build a community of queer people at work. It has been great to meet amazing LGBTQ+ leaders across the organization.
Are there LGBTQ+ resources you would recommend for Cambia employees and the broader community?
There is an app called “Refuge Restroom” that helps identify gender neutral restrooms closest to you when you are out in public. It can be helpful for people who are stressed when using gender-specific restrooms.
Is there a nonprofit organization or community cause that you support or care deeply about?
The Q-Center in Portland does a lot of work to support LGBTQ+ youth and families with resources, information and more.
How do you plan to celebrate Pride this year given ongoing pandemic precautions?
I go to the parade every year with my dad since the event usually falls on Father’s Day in Portland. This year we will celebrate however we can.
What are some ways fellow Cambia employees and others can celebrate Pride and raise awareness about important issues facing the LGBTQ+ community?
2021 has been a record-breaking year for anti-trans legislation. Health care is vital for trans children, and there are many causes stepping in across communities to try to support children during this year.
Jen Craig (she/her)
Claims Investigational Analyst, Payment Integrity
In 2014, my son came out as FTM (female to male) and began the process of transitioning. With his support, I faced my own truth that I had hidden for over 30 years and came out as bisexual. Thankfully my family mostly supported me. Pride Month means a lot to my family -- it gives us the freedom to express who we are, continue the fight for equality, and share the love we have found in our local LGBTQ+ community.
I originally joined the PRIDE ERG because I wanted to support our community and meet like-minded people. My department has been incredibly supportive. I would like to share a cause near and dear to my heart -- Trans Family Support Services. When we were going through the process for my son’s pre-op process for his top surgery, they were a wonderful resource to help us through the journey.
We intend to attend Bellingham Pride if it occurs, masked up and all.
Learn more about Cambia’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
