Johnson Controls Celebrates Pride 2024
“Pride Month is an important celebration so we can acknowledge what our fight has achieved so far and what we still need to work on. It helps us embrace ourselves and remind ourselves that we are not fighting alone, especially in times of uncertainty, it reminds us that we should be proud of who we are and not turn off our voice,” said Barbie Zuñiga Escalante, Process Owner HRSSC Workforce Admin, Johnson Controls, Monterrey, Mexico.
“To me pride month is a celebration of diversity and inclusion, a safe place for those who have been judged and torn down to not only be themselves but celebrate who they are. Allies and those in the community all have a space in the celebration,” said Kari Bjaastad, team manager, Johnson Controls. Kari is pictured with Adam King (right) in Kansas City, Missouri, USA.
“It’s important for companies like Johnson Controls to celebrate and recognize Pride because everyone should feel welcomed and embraced,” said Bridget Gallagher, vice president, ERP Transformation, Johnson Controls.
“The most important ‘asset’ in a company is their employees and when employees feel comfortable, safe, and welcome, they can perform better without worrying or hiding,” said Dianaid Ramírez, director of Cybersecurity Data Analysis. Dianaid is pictured with Luu Felipe in Mexico City, Mexico.
“A diverse and inclusive workplace encourages innovation and collaboration. Recognizing and celebrating Pride is both a moral and strategic business decision, enhancing company culture, reputation, and overall success. Companies that celebrate Pride are doing the right thing for their LGBTQ+ employees by cultivating a welcoming environment for all to build that sense of belonging which will create results to perform and do their work well,” said Benjamin Le Roy, Sr. Learning Designer, Glendale, Wisconsin, USA. Chicago Pride Parade photo, submitted by Benjamin.
“Recognizing and celebrating Pride Month as a company is indeed a wonderful initiative. It helps ensure that employees feel valued, heard, supported, included, and appreciated for their diversity. This kind of inclusive environment fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens our community,” said Jessie Young, administrative coordinator, Johnson Controls, Dayton, Ohio, USA. Jessie is pictured with her son Dimitri (center) and dog, Mia.
Throughout Johnson Controls, employees around the world celebrate Pride to commemorate how far LGBTQ+ rights have come, and recognize the work that lies ahead. At Johnson Controls, the month-long celebration was led by JC4e, a business resource group dedicated to advancing an inclusive environment, promoting equality, and prioritizing the safety of LGBTQ+ employees, families, and their allies. The events included a global kickoff, open discussions about family dynamics, a session on the history of Pride, a session on the history of drag and a virtual Pride parade.
“Our employees are our greatest assets and Johnson Controls is a place where employees can bring their authentic selves to work each day. This fosters a truly inclusive culture of creativity and inspires change,” said Diane Schwarz, Johnson Controls Chief Information Officer and executive sponsor of the JC4e business resource group. “I’m proud of the difference made by our JC4e community, especially as we celebrate Pride Month.”
Johnson Controls has long understood the value of diversity and inclusion. Building on this history, our leadership is moving diversity and inclusion beyond a foundational value to a business imperative. To learn more visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us/diversity-and-inclusion