How Allies Can Contribute to the Fight for LGBTQ+ Equality

Martin Castellucci, Country Holding Officer Chile & Peru at ABB, and Chief Sponsor of the Country Ally Initiative in their LGBTQ+ network, spoke to myGwork about why he chose to join the fight for LGBTQ+ equality, and why he calls himself an ally to the community. He also discusses why he thinks allyship in general is an important aspect of creating an inclusive workplace, providing examples of how allies can contribute to the progression of equal rights for the community.

Why do you think allies are important?

Allies are vital for their support, understanding, and solidarity in various aspects of life at ABB. Here's why they matter:

- Allies elevate the voices of marginalized groups, using their influence to spotlight issues and advocate for rights, driving awareness and positive change.

- Moreover, allies enhance diverse perspectives in spaces by supporting marginalized individuals or groups, ensuring inclusivity in decision-making.

- They also facilitate mutual learning, challenging biases, broadening perspectives, benefiting both themselves and the marginalized groups they support.

- In addition, allies create supportive environments for marginalized individuals, actively countering discrimination and fostering an inclusive atmosphere for all.

How can allies help create an inclusive workplace?

Allies play an essential role in crafting an inclusive workplace at ABB. Here's how they contribute:

- Educating themselves and others about diversity, equity, and inclusion, allies raise awareness and foster an inclusive mindset by understanding marginalized groups' experiences.

- Leveraging privilege to champion diversity and inclusion through policy advocacy, allies support equal opportunities, fair hiring, and diverse leadership at ABB.

- Confronting biases and discrimination while fostering respect and ABB values, allies address inappropriate actions, ensuring a respectful atmosphere.

- Elevating marginalized voices, allies use their positions for recognition at ABB. They offer platforms, share work, and advocate for inclusion in decisions.

- Furthermore, allies build support networks for LGBTQ+ communities. They provide mentorship, guidance, and professional growth opportunities. 
 

 
What does it mean for you to be an ally?  
 

Supporting LGBTQ+ communities as an ally entails actively using your privilege to challenge discrimination and advance equality. This commitment involves continuous self-reflection, education, and taking action.

To fulfill this role, engage in listening and learning from LGBTQ+ communities, understanding their challenges without making yourself the focus. Oppose injustice, voice against bias, and promote fairness.

Moreover, humility is crucial—embracing errors, accepting feedback, and addressing biases. This journey is ongoing, acknowledging the strength of collective efforts toward a fair and inclusive society.

When and why did you choose to join the LGBTQ+ community in its fight for equality?

I can provide information and support for conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and equality within a company context, including the activities of the new Employee Resource Group (ERG) of Diversity & Inclusion in Chile. Moreover, I can assist in promoting understanding, respect, and inclusivity for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity at ABB.

What is an LGBTQ+ ally?

An LGBTQ+ ally supports and advocates for the rights and inclusion of those in the LGBTQ+ community, even if they don't personally identify as LGBTQ+. They challenge discrimination, promote equality, and create safe spaces. Educating themselves and others, allies confront biases and work against prejudice. Being an ally means listening, learning, and advocating for equal rights, using their platform to foster inclusivity. In addition to that, as a leader at ABB, walking the talk may involve additional actions such as prompting policies and practices, visible support, mentorship, resource allocation, zero tolerance for discrimination, targeted trainings and education programs among others. By consistently integrating these actions into leadership practices, you exemplify genuine commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion, fostering a more diverse, respectful, and equitable workplace for everyone at ABB.