We often refer to Deloitte as a people business, as we couldn’t do what we do for our clients without the people we have in the firm. People are what make our business great and we value diversity, and are committed to respect and inclusion.
Deloitte has created a number of diversity networks for employees to join – to have a voice, be respected and achieve great things, regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexuality or any other characteristic.
One of these networks is GLOBE and GLOBE Cymru & South West is an off-shoot of the network for people in our region. What GLOBE does is provide opportunities for LGBT+ people from across the business to network, as well as to advise and support. And we also have a number of individuals in the region who are part of our Allies programme. This initiative encourages non-LGBT people in the business to declare their support for LGBT+ inclusion and visibility.
The GLOBE network is part and parcel of the culture we’re fortunate to have at Deloitte, enabling everyone to feel able to be themselves at work.
On Saturday 24 August, 45 members of GLOBE Cymru & South West, allies and friends, joined the Pride Cymru parade for the third year running, kitted out in our rainbow Deloitte t-shirts, to celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity.
2019 marked the 20th birthday of Pride Cymru and 15,000 participants walked the one mile route around the city centre, finishing at Cardiff Castle. It was a scorching summer’s day and the thermometer hit 26°C. The great weather and sunshine contributed to the fun and just like everyone we met, we all felt completely part of an inclusive atmosphere. It was amazing day.
After the parade had ended, our group went on to the Big Weekend event, where we enjoyed performances by Texas, Liberty X and Atomic Kitten. Gok Wan even did a DJ set!
Here’s what one of our members had to say about the parade:
“Taking part in Pride Cymru was FUN! It was lovely to celebrate diversity with my colleagues, in something that is truly inclusive. I think as a business it was important for us to attend this event, to show the pride and support for the LGBT+ community. I truly felt proud to march alongside my community and colleagues. I cannot wait for next year’s event!”
Pride Cymru was the last in a series of events that our people across the UK have taken part in this summer. As well as enjoying sunshine and warm weather, our GLOBE and Allies members have been involved in Pride festivities in other cities. Members, as well as families and friends, have celebrated with colour, jubilation and a whole lot of love as we’ve proudly marched in parades in London, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Leeds, Bristol, Belfast and Manchester.
Authored by GLOBE Cymru & South West Network