06.04.24 Executive announces LGBTQ+ Affinity Group
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2024
Jackson County Executive announces LGBTQ+ Affinity Group, celebrates inclusivity with Pride Month Flag-Raising Ceremony
Community event set for Thursday morning at downtown County Courthouse
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. is proud to announce the formation of the first LGBTQ+ Affinity Group for Jackson County associates, in conjunction with our annual Pride Month flag-raising ceremony. This initiative underscores Jackson County’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace for all associates, celebrating diversity and promoting equality.
The establishment of an affinity group makes for a stronger workplace. Recent studies indicate that inclusive workplaces are not just ethical imperatives but also lead to greater employee satisfaction, improved job performance and overall organizational success. According to the Human Rights Campaign, 46% of LGBTQ+ workers are closeted at their workplaces. Jackson County leadership aims to provide a safe and welcoming space for its LGBTQ+ associates to support and interact with one another and advocate for a more inclusive environment.
“Our county is stronger when every associate feels seen, heard and valued,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “The creation of the LGBTQ+ Affinity Group is a significant step toward ensuring that our workplace reflects the diversity of our community. We are committed to promoting understanding, acceptance and respect for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
The LGBTQ+ Affinity Group will serve as a resource for associates, providing educational opportunities, organizing events and fostering a sense of community. It will also work closely with County leadership to address issues of concern to LGBTQ+ associates and advocate for policies that support equality and inclusion.
To celebrate this new resource, Jackson County will hold a flag-raising ceremony at the Kansas City Downtown Courthouse on Thursday, June 6 at 10:30 a.m. The event will feature remarks from County Executive White, representatives from LGBTQ+ groups and other community leaders. All associates, members of the public and media are invited to attend and celebrate the beginning of Pride Month with us. The Wild Way Coffee Creations, a female-owned business and LGBTQ+ community ally, will be onsite serving handcrafted drinks and pastries from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
“We know from our Chamber members that LGBT employee-led groups positively contribute to the overall success of their businesses, so we commend Jackson County for creating their own LGBTQ+ Affinity Group,” said LGBT Mid-America Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tracey DeMarea (she/her). “As a Chamber member, we’d encourage the County associates to join and participate in our Workforce SynQ program, which brings together many Pride and LGBT employee-led groups, to learn from and support one another.”
“We are excited to launch this initiative during Pride Month, a time when we honor the contributions and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community,” White said. “Our goal is to create a supportive network that enhances the lives of our associates. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable workplace.”
Jackson County is committed to leading by example and promoting a culture where diversity is celebrated and all associates are empowered to thrive. We look forward to the positive impact the LGBTQ+ Affinity Group will have on our community and our workplace.
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About Jackson County, Missouri
Jackson County is dedicated to providing exceptional public services and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community for all residents. Through innovative programs and initiatives, the county strives to enhance the quality of life and promote the well-being of its diverse population.