For a day of learning and connection with a focus on workplace inclusion, join Albany Pride and Pride in Diversity with two premium educational sessions offered back-to-back. Starting with groundwork in LGBTQIA+ awareness and then an empowering session on how to become a stronger ally, these sessions are designed to be attended together to build on your knowledge. Let’s come together Reaching Albany with Pride! Light morning tea and refreshments provided between sessions. 

9.00-10.30am: LGBTQ AWARENESS (90 mins) 

LGBTQ Awareness is an introductory session for anyone who is interested in learning more about the LGBTQ community and workplace inclusion. This is an interactive session where questions are encouraged, and discussions are held in a respectful and safe environment. 

By the end of the session participants will: 

• Understand the business case for LGBTQ inclusion and explain why it is important in a workplace context;
• Understand some of the lived experiences and unique challenges for LGBTQ people and the impact to the workplace;
• Understand the diversity of, and differences between sex characteristics, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation;
• Learn some introductory actions individuals can take to create a more inclusive workplace culture 

  11.30-1pm: EMPOWERING ALLIES (90 mins) 

The purpose of this session is to build on the knowledge about LGBTQ inclusion covered in ‘LGBTQ Awareness’. This session will focus on what an ally is and how we can be allies in the workplace and beyond. This interactive workshop allows participants to build their skills in intervention as well as their understanding of what makes a good ally. Participants must attend LGBTQ Awareness prior to attending this workshop. 

By the end of the session participants will: 

• Understand what makes an effective ally;
• Respond to some of the common views that question the need for inclusion initiatives;
• Be able to intervene in non-inclusive situations.