The journey towards LGBTQ+ justice, equality, and inclusion, has never been easy. We’ve faced countless challenges, naysayers, and setbacks. But, with the support of our allies, we’ve persevered.

Over the last two decades, we’ve achieved what once seemed impossible: workplace protections, marriage equality, greater representation across every major platform, and a shift in hearts and minds towards greater acceptance and inclusion of our community.

As we celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month, it’s important we remember our progress and our accomplishments. They remind us how strong our community can be and renew us for the important work ahead.

Today, extremists are (still) pushing for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. A handful of companies have made short-sighted decisions to pull back on diversity, equity, and inclusion. But here’s what I know: The future is ours.

With each generation, our workforce and our society are becoming more Queer. One in five Gen Z adults identifies as LGBTQ+. We’re flexing our economic muscle, with LGBTQ+ purchasing power in the US estimated at $1.4 trillion. And our workplaces are becoming more inclusive, with 91% of Fortune 500 companies prohibiting workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation.

The winds of progress remain at our back. Let’s always remember that together, we’re powerful. Together, we can build a future centered on inclusion and belonging. Together, no one can stop us.  

Today, we are launching the official Out & Equal CEO Instagram account.

Be sure to follow Erin Uritus @ceo_outandequal for her reflections on the moment we're in, the work and impact of Out & Equal, and how together, we will keeping push forward.

Throughout the month of October, we’re proud to celebrate and acknowledge the following: 

LGBTQ+ History Month (October)

The history of the LGBTQ+ community is rich with joy and grief. Through the ups and downs, the history-making victories and the challenges that tested our resolve, our collective community has become stronger, showing that we are an unstoppable force. This month, we honor the trailblazers, activists, leaders, and everyday heroes who have paved the way for LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

International Lesbian Day (October 8)

We are proud to celebrate the lesbian community and its strength, diversity, and beauty. Today and every day, we acknowledge the integral role it has, is, and will continue to play in advancing LGBTQ+ equality.

National Coming Out Day (October 11)

Whether you are out and proud or your journey is just beginning, know that you are loved, seen, and valid. To those who are navigating their journey and determining how to share their stories at work, we encourage you to read our resource, Your Story. Your Truth. Your Power.

International Pronouns Day (October 16)

Using someone’s correct pronouns is a simple and important way to show respect and affirm and validate someone’s identity. For tips on pronoun inclusion in the workplace, read this resource from Out & Equal.

Spirit Day (October 17)

Stand up, stand for, and stand with LGBTQ+ youth by going purple for Spirit Day! While more young people are identifying as LGBTQ+, they still face adversity and hardship On Spirit Day and year-round, we must show our support for LGBTQ+ youth and take a stand against bullying in all of its forms.

Asexual Awareness Week (October 22-28)

For too long, the asexual community has experienced a lack of representation while being subjected to micro-agressions and questions and comments that invalidate and isolate. That must end. This week and beyond, let’s celebrate, elevate, and recognize the asexual community. Let’s take time to educate ourselves about their experiences and become allies in community.

Intersex Awareness Day (October 26)

Did you know that the global population of people who are intersex is larger than the entire nation of Japan? Despite the prevalence of intersex variation, too few employers have resources to understand the “I” in LGBTQI inclusion. It’s why we partnered with interACT Advocates for Youth to release a guide on supporting intersex inclusion in the workplace.



At Out & Equal, we understand the importance of bringing your true and authentic self to all aspects of your life.

It's why we are and always will be committed to...  

• Radiating Pride and Queer joy.  
• Creating inclusive environments where all individuals can thrive. 
• And advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion and belonging in the workplace and beyond.  

Whether you’re out and proud or your journey is just beginning, know that we stand with you. You are valid. You are seen.

Always embrace and celebrate who you are. Never forget that your truth is your power. And always remember—you are never alone on this journey.

On October 11, upload a brief message to your social channels, tag Out & Equal, and use #NationalComingOutDay.

Recognizing World Mental Health Day on October 10 

On World Mental Health Day and beyond, let’s acknowledge the importance of identifying and creating safe and inclusive spaces where we can reach out, talk, and seek help when needed.

Remember, you’re never alone on your journey and there are helpful mental health resources dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community including Trans Lifeline, The Trevor Project, and the LGBT National Hotline.

If you’re struggling, help is available 24 hours a day by dialing 988 to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Out & Equal in the News

Our CEO, Erin Uritus: 

• Is featured in a USA Today piece about the current DEI landscape and the value of inclusion and belonging.
• Sits down with Rhodes Perry (he/him) for his Imagine Belonging at Work podcast where they discuss her personal and professional journey, the impact of Out & Equal, and the business case for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
• Pens a byline for The Advocate on the value of bi+ inclusion in the workplace.
• Sits down with the Forged in Fire podcast to discuss her personal journey, leadership style, and how the experiences of an LGBTQ+ individual impact their approach to leadership.

Join the Out & Equal Community