What It Means to Be an Inclusive Organization

“If we stand up and say that this is a safe place, you can be who you want to be, I believe it creates a space where LGBTQ+ can speak up and feel included.”

Angela Monzione, PA at Santander, spoke to myGwork about her incredible, consistent support for the LGBTQ+ community, describing how Santander gets involved in the ongoing campaign for equality. She also reveals what being an “inclusive” organization means to her and discusses the importance of allies raising the voices and shifting the focus onto LGBTQ+ people.

Can you please introduce yourself and describe your role within your organization?

My name is Angela Monzione. I’m a PA at Santander supporting three directors within the Chief Operating Office.

How do you think allies can be (more) vocal?

Be proud to be an ally and not be concerned if you’re “labelled” as a result.  I’ve found doing something as simple as having the Santander LGBTQ+ logo on my signature or wearing an Embrace lanyard makes a massive difference. 

How does your organization facilitate the inclusion of allies with your LGBTQ+ network? 

Santander is fantastic with all things relating to diversity and inclusion and actively encourages colleagues to become allies. 

Have you been involved in any activities with your organization’s LGBTQ+ network, which ones? 

Milton Keynes Pride Festival 2022.  I’d been with Santander for about three weeks when Milton Keynes Pride was taking place in September 2022.  I volunteered at the Santander marquee and spoke up at a panel talk, supporting four colleagues who were brave enough to share their stories at the event. 

How can allies help create an inclusive workplace? 

The greatest way to show support is to listen and to ensure that we all play a part in making all colleagues feel comfortable and included. 

How does your organization address these challenges? 

Santander does excellent work in relation to diversity and inclusion. We have access to lots of community sites, events, training sessions and network activities to have resources for how to be a good ally, be supportive and inclusive. 

What makes an organization inclusive for you? 

An organization that listens and puts into practice what it has learnt from colleagues who have been brave enough to share their concerns. 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to become an ally? 

Just to it!  It’s easy and the difference we make to colleagues is huge. 

What can allies do to make sure they are not centering their selves in the fight for equality, and instead uplifting LGBTQ+ voices? 

It’s not about us – it’s about our LGBTQ+ colleagues.  If we stand up and say that this is a safe place, you can be who you want to be, I believe it creates a space where LGBTQ+ can speak up and feel included.