In honor of Pride Month, we asked our YTTP team members a few questions about their experience as a person in the LGBTQIA+ community, or as an active ally. For the people in the community, we hope the responses we share over the coming days make you feel seen, heard, and empowered to live authentically as yourself. For those in support, we hope that you learn something new, and it inspires you to uplift the voices of people living on the margins.
“Activate your voice” is a phrase that some of us have seen or heard, so we asked our team members to share what this means to them personally.
Megan, Manager of Omni Client Experience and EducationTo speak out proudly about who you are and to stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves! Even if it's hard and uncomfortable.
Selin, Director of Marketing
"Activating your voice" means giving space and safety in your day-to-day life to those whose voices have historically been made to feel small. It's allowing them the opportunity to feel heard in an authentically safe way.
Lauren, Senior Manager of Retail Relations & Strategy
Not being afraid to speak up for yourself or others in times of need. It also means using the systems that are in place at corporations, governments or communities to use your voice: voting, pulse, town halls, money spend, rallies & protests etc.
Khalid, Omni-Channel Client Experience Coordinator
When I hear "activate your voice", I think of living in my truth, unapologetically. As a gay, Black man I have spent a large part of my life hiding parts of myself out of fear of what society may say. However, over the years, I've learned to let go of my fears and embrace who I am. I stand firmly in my queerness, and I love to express it through words, fashion, pictures, decor, TV shows, etc. Activating your voice isn't always about being the loudest in the room. It's about the way you show up in support of yourself and others, even those with different identities than your own.
Anonymous
Activating my voice means not being afraid to speak my truth, share my unique perspective, and live out loud without fear of judgement or harassment.
Lisa- Renee, Field Sales
Speaking up in moments where others are not represented/present to speak for themselves and speaking up when you need to help stand with those who need support.
Kelly, DMI Marketing
Activating your voice to me means that you have the choice to speak up for what you believe in. Your voice cannot be silent; your voice has power, use it.