Colorful brushstroke forming a rainbow on a light background, symbolic of Pride Month.

Be Yourself: Celebrating Pride Month

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Written by Sarah Claire Eleazer
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Edited by Maya Fowell
Talent and Culture June 1, 2023

As LGBTQIA+ Pride Month begins, we are celebrating the beauty of "Being Yourself". At Greystar, we understand the importance of embracing one's true identity and the impact it has on personal fulfillment and professional growth. 

In a world where individuality can sometimes be stifled, we recognize the negative consequences it can have on employees and the overall work environment. We are committed to creating a work environment where authenticity is not only valued but embraced.

 

A happy group of individuals participating in a Pride event, wearing matching T-shirts with a rainbow-colored 'pride' slogan, and holding rainbow flags.


Be Yourself

"Being Yourself" means embracing your true identity and allowing it to shine without fear of judgment or discrimination. It is about feeling comfortable in your own skin and expressing who you truly are. This authenticity is not only liberating, but it also brings tremendous value into the workplace.

When we create an atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to be their authentic selves, we invite a wealth of unique perspectives, experiences, and talents. This diversity enriches our work environment, enhances problem-solving abilities, and fuels innovation. 

 

Inspiring True Individuality

We are proud to share testimonies from members of the LGBTQIA+ community within the Greystar family who have embraced their true identities within the workplace. 

Their stories serve as beacons of inspiration, reminding us of the importance of embracing our true identities and charting our own paths in the face of adversity:


Alyson Tate – Leasing Manager – Lexington, KY

 

Two brides on their wedding day, one in a white suit and the other in a lace bridal gown, holding a bouquet, sharing a heartfelt moment.


“Being able to be my authentic self helps me grow by allowing my mind to move freely and create without worry. Feeling accepted helps me feel confident and comfortable to take risks and share ideas with my team. Creating an inclusive work environment benefits not only LGBTQIA+ employees but our organization as a whole.”



Marla Degner – Support Coordinator – Remote AZ

 

Individual wearing a tie-dye hoodie with 'GREYSTAR' branding and headphones, giving a subtle smile to the camera.  

 
“Our team recently shared what pillar or core value we connect with the most and my answer was easy. Equality! Before Greystar, I never worked for a company that even used the word equality. I have been with the company for just over 2 years. This is the most accepted and valued I have ever felt in 28 years of work history.”



Joey Shows – Assistant Community Manager – Aubrey, TX

 

Two smiling men, one with a beard wearing sunglasses, outdoors in a sunny setting.


“When you work for a company that is as open as Greystar it allows you to feel comfortable with who you truly are. When I come to work I get to be myself. I am not asked to change my clothing or my mannerisms. I feel accepted by my team, all the way up to upper management. I always feel welcome to be ME.”



Jamie Rose – Leasing Professional – Salt Lake City, UT

 

A bearded man with a wide smile in front of a colorful, graffiti-style mural.


“When I started in property management, I hesitated to discuss my personal life, fearing it would affect how potential residents perceived me and influenced their rental decisions. However, in December 2022, an LGBTQIA+ couple toured our property. This encounter gave me the courage to openly share my personal life. Building that connection and receiving their positive support helped me feel more at ease in my role, enabling me to connect with current and future residents more effectively."

 

 

These firsthand experiences of LGBTQIA+ team members at Greystar, describing the sense of inclusion and support they have felt, serve as a powerful source of inspiration for us all. Let us strive to create spaces where every individual can be their true selves.

 

At Greystar, we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. We proudly stand alongside organizations like The Trevor Project, dedicated to providing life-saving support and resources for LGBTQIA+ youth. Explore other LGBTQIA+ support organizations and resources:

National LGBTQ Task Force
Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD)
National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE)
Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)


Looking for more engaging content? Check out the rest of our blogs.

 

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