Empowering Change: Inclusive Benefits in the Face of Rising Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation
In an era where visibility for LGBTQIA+ individuals is at an all-time high, yet legislative challenges continue to surge, Haley Everheart and Megan James step forward to lead a crucial conversation at the Culture Summit 2024.
As veterans in their respective fields, their upcoming session, “Breaking Barriers: Building Inclusive Benefits in the Wake of Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation,” promises to be a beacon of insight and empowerment for organizations striving to fully support their LGBTQIA+ employees.
Culture Summit caught up with them both to learn more:
Could you introduce yourselves and share more about your roles within the Culture space?
Megan: “Specializing in employee benefits for over 15 years, I focus on empathetically supporting employees and strategizing benefits as a crucial part of business culture.”
Haley: “With over 15 years in digital storytelling and community building, I now lead marketing at FOLX Health, enhancing LGBTQIA+ care through diverse audience engagement.”
What initially sparked your passion for the HR/Culture/People domain?
Megan: “Benefits were my entry point, evolving from a ‘warm and fuzzy’ addition to a strategic business component that retains talent by supporting various life phases.”
Haley: “My passion stems from early interests in novels and cultural production, further deepened by my communications and ethnography studies and allyship for marginalized communities.”
Can you recount the most valuable piece of work or culture-related advice you’ve received?
Megan: “Decisions made in the best interest of employees are always the ones you’ll stand by without regret.”
What motivated you to choose this particular topic for the Culture Summit?
Megan: “With over 450 anti-LGBTQ+ bills tracked by the ACLU, there’s a pressing need for action beyond employee resource groups to support employees genuinely.”
Haley: “Facing an unprecedented number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills, it’s crucial to discuss creating inclusive organizations amidst increasing visibility and societal backlash.”
If you had to highlight one compelling reason why attendees shouldn’t miss your session, what would it be?
Megan: “Awareness is the spark that initiates change.”
Haley: “Your LGBTQIA+ employees need you more than you realize.”
Conclusion
Now is the time to gain vital insights for creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all employees.
Don’t miss Megan and Haley’s session “Breaking Barriers: Building Inclusive Benefits in the Wake of Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation” on Monday, October 7, from 10:15 am to 11:00 am PT at Culture Summit 2024, San Diego!