LGBT Great has today launched the #WriteToInspire campaign to mark LGBT History Month 2020.
It will encourage more people in the investment and savings profession to be visible and share their stories through joining the firm’s Project 1000.
Project 1000 is a global five-year drive to spotlight 1,000 LGBT+ and supportive ally role models, all working within the industry. The movement has attracted representation from over 60 different firms in three continents and works collaboratively with the Diversity Project and other initiatives.
The WriteToInspire campaign builds on the momentum of LGBT Great’s initiatives and serves as a powerful reminder about the importance of the equality movement and the progress taking place in the investment and savings profession.
Through highlighting the positive actions taken by individuals and firms, LGBT Great is changing perceptions of the investment and savings industry and ensuring that it is seen as an inclusive choice for all prospective employees.
In the UK, LGBT History Month is held throughout February to raise awareness on the challenges faced by the LGBT+ community historically.
The theme this year is about inspiring others through writing, and WriteToInspire highlights the visibility of LGBT+ and ally Project 1000 role models, who have all contributed an online written bio as a beacon of inspiration to others.
Significant contributions
The WriteToInspire campaign specifically spotlights four Project 1000 role models, including:
- Emma Palethorpe, a programme manager at St James’ Place Wealth Management;
- Seamus Kearney, a second vice-president from Northern Trust;
- Justin Onuekwusi, a fund manager from Legal and General Investment Management; and
- Ann Lynch, a business analyst from Schroders.
LGBT Great has selected these four individuals based on their contributions to diversity and inclusion. LGBT Great’s global member firms also spearhead the campaign which celebrates LGBT History Month and aims to help increase progress towards the 1,000 goal.
Matthew Cameron, managing director of LGBT Great, said: “The simple concept of role modelship is having a significant impact across our industry by providing minorities with the confidence that they need to succeed.
“Just a few years ago, there was no support for LGBT+ visibility at a time when expectations from employees, clients and investors were increasing. Our members are proud to mark LGBT History Month, and we hope that this will have a positive impact by encouraging others to follow their lead.”
International Adviser‘s parent company, Last Word Media, is the exclusive industry media partner of LGBT Great.
For more insights on diversity and inclusion, please click on www.diversityq.com
