Commemoration months are emotion-filled. And June, which is Pride Month, ushers in a mix of feelings — joy, fear, disappointment and hope.

Pride in the US honors the 1969 Stonewall riots and works to achieve equal justice and opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ communities across the world. For me, it’s a time to reflect on how far we’ve come from the streets of Greenwich Village — and how much farther we have to go for true acceptance and equity.

Brené Brown said, “True belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world, our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance.”

When I think of diversity, equity and inclusion at work, belonging is at the root of it. It’s the idea that, as an individual, I’m part of a greater whole — a part of a community. It’s when people from all backgrounds and all walks of life can celebrate and, more importantly, show up as our authentic selves.

Belonging means participating: to intentionally create the safe spaces and communities for all individuals to bring their authentic selves. And it’s encouraging when I see my colleagues actively doing this every day.

Being able to bring our authentic selves means we’re given visibility. It uplifts the voices of our diverse talents. We don’t need stats to prove the value that unique perspectives bring to a business. So, it’s my honor to share some of perspectives from my colleagues who are doing their part to shape a culture rooted in belonging at Genesys.

Pride Is Visibility by Iulian-Daniel Golea

Pride, to me, means visibility. Being able to show who you really are and to be proud of what you do in both your personal and professional life.

Pride Is a Reminder by Iurii Koretniuk

For me, Pride is a celebration of who I am and who I can be. It’s all about unconditional and radical acceptance of myself and others. But Pride is also a reminder. It’s a reminder that it is ok to be confused. Because you are not confused. You might be scared or just need more time to explore yourself. It is reminder that I am free. Here and now — while my home country still harasses my community and my fellow queers must hide to survive. Pride is a reminder about what really matters. Pride is a reminder that I am part of you, and you are part of us. And that we need each other. Pride is a reminder that diversity without unity is a pathway to chaos.

Pride Is to Fight by Khen Tomlen

While it’s good to celebrate wins, there is still so much that needs to be changed. For as long as the lives of LGBTQIA+ community are lost because of violence, for as long as the people or the community are discriminated against or barred from equal and fair work opportunities, then we need to continue to fight.

Pride Is Freedom by Joel Ogburn

It’s simple. Because of freedom of pride I am able to express myself in professional life, at home and even throughout my religious beliefs.