PRIDE employee resource group (ERG) and the ERG's global chapters create a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies while advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in every workplace.
“At UKG, we celebrate who we are! Together, let’s paint the world with the vibrant colours of pride and acceptance. As an ally with pride, I embrace equality and advocate for a world where everyone is celebrated for who they are.”
UKG Senior Director of Software Engineering and PRIDE India Chapter co-chair
UKG’s PRIDE employee resource group (ERG) has a lot to be proud of and celebrate. PRIDE marked its 10th anniversary in 2024 and as UKG’s inaugural ERG, PRIDE currently has five geographical chapters and over 1,500 global members.
PRIDE’s 10th anniversary was honored during U.S. Pride month with U Krewers attending local celebrations and parades in Boston, Indianapolis, South Florida, and Atlanta in the U.S., and in Noida, India.
Virtually, U Krew leaders and employees commemorated the anniversary with intersectional keynote sessions with UKG’s ADAPT and BUILD ERGs ― showcasing inspirational stories of determination and grit, as well as webinars on financial literacy and active allyship that armed attendees with new perspective and skills.
The anniversary and Pride month theme, Unbreakable U, was inspired by the unbreakable and resilient spirit of the LGBTQIA+ community. The theme embodied the vision of PRIDE, which is to lead the industry as a best place to work for LGBTQIA+ people by providing thought leadership, education and development resources, and subject matter expertise in areas most important to LGBTQIA+ employees and their families.
PRIDE acts on its mission to enable all people to THRIVE as their authentic selves and on UKG’s mission of “Our purpose is people” by amplifying belonging, sponsoring events, partnering with key organizations for philanthropic opportunities, and modeling success for our partners and customers.
This action is reflected in PRIDE’s many accomplishments, including establishing the UKG Employee Transfer Policy and Relocation Guide, which helps U.S. employees who are impacted by state LGBTQIA+ laws to transfer to our headquarters in Lowell, MA, raising $4,500+ for the Transgender Law Center, and facilitating pronoun education campaigns for rapid response teams and UKG employees. PRIDE also played a large role in helping UKG earn a 100% score on the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index for three consecutive years.
PRIDE India creates a sense of belonging and fosters global collaboration
Pride Month 2024 was significant not only because of ERG's decennial anniversary but because of the strong synergies between the U.S.-based initiatives and those hosted by PRIDE’s new global chapter in India.
“These events brought a sense of community that not only aimed at uplifting members but also empowered them to be advocates for change with ongoing discussions and continued leadership commitment to being a workplace for all,” says Sarvesh, UKG Senior Director of Software Engineering and PRIDE India Chapter co-chair.
As a PRIDE leader, Sarvesh is enthusiastic about raising awareness of PRIDE’s goals. “I am motivated by a passion and deep commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. I believe that by advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility, we are not only uplifting our community but also making a positive contribution to society as a whole.”
As a People Leader, Sarvesh champions the business imperative of ERGs. “In a rapidly changing world, it’s crucial for individuals and organizations to stay attuned to these shifts. ERGs provide spaces for employees to express themselves without fear of judgment ― promoting creativity, innovation, and overall wellbeing.”
In partnership with LeanIn.org, one of PRIDE India’s Lean In Circle programs focused specifically on LGBTQIA+ issues. Attendees engaged in open dialogue discussions that empowered allies to amplify and champion the needs of their LGBTQIA+ colleagues. “Allies can model positive behaviors, demonstrating respect, empathy, and support,” says Sarvesh.
Participating in PRIDE India as an ally encourages personal growth by challenging assumptions. “By following allies’ lead, we can cultivate a workplace culture that inspires all employees to contribute and embrace diversity,” Sarvesh adds. “Our goal is to champion inclusion rather than allow isolation to take root.”
PRIDE is an impactful and valued aspect of UKG’s business and workplace culture. The ERG serves as a vital resource for LGBTQIA+ individuals, advocating for their rights, fostering inclusivity, and driving positive change.
PRIDE – here’s to many more years of celebrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging together and for all.