Be Proud Pride is Alive

Celebrating Intersectionality as an Out, Gay, Veteran Leading Change in the Era of AI

There is no denying it. We live in a world that is increasingly interconnected. And yet, sadly it seems to be growing more distant, distrusting and fractured with each and every unintended and misguided use of technology. And still, amidst the uncertainty and ambiguity all around us, I am reminded of the power of not only our interconnectedness, but also our intersectionality. In fact, despite the unnerving and sometimes deafening narratives, I think there is hope and heartfelt compassion that still travels on that same bandwidth. We may just need to boost its signal a bit. And once we do, it is easier to hear, see, feel and believe in the power of possibility, progress and unity.

This resounding sentiment was the cornerstone of a recent event titled, PRIDE ALIVE, hosted by the LGBTQ Employee Resource Group at Ericsson. Ericsson as a global brand, company and provider of connectedness around the world is exploring the profound significance of sharing stories that weave through various facets of everyone's identity. To connect us is to know us. And this year, under the leadership of Brian Johnson, Head of North American Private and Public Venues in Regional Operations, a bright light of hope illuminated the intersectionality of the LGBTQ+ Veteran community.

PRIDE ALIVE: A Fusion of Voices

PRIDE ALIVE isn't just a celebration, it is an honoring of all the stories, told and still unvoiced during Pride Month. Ericsson and many other corporations allocate and celebrate the rich tapestry of lives that intersect at various identities, while connecting us all through technology. As a guest speaker invited to share my story as a distinguished change management expert and U.S. Army officer, I welcomed the opportunity to delve into how these intersections of our identities shape our lives, our communities, and our workplaces.

My experience and lessons shared as a gay man who served in the military, while under the constraints of policies like "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," highlighted the complexities and resilience of serving with integrity. My service began in the months after the events that shook the world on September 11, 2001. We all remember where we were that day. And that day, and in the days thereafter, we loved one another. For a while anyway. I believe we must all find different ways to connect and protect and advocate for the rights of all humans, and work to create a world where everyone’s true self is honored.

Storytelling Saves Lives

One of the most moving moments of PRIDE ALIVE event was the reading of a speech written by Tammy Baldwin, a member of Congress. The speech reflected on the winding path from fear to courage, and from isolation to belonging. Baldwin made history by becoming the first openly LGBT woman elected to the House of Representatives and later to the Senate. It was that path of resilience and courage that led to Capitol Hill. Hearing the words of Tammy Baldwin showcases the transformation that comes from standing up for oneself and for others. In listening to the words each one of us on this call was reminded that our collective fight for equality continues, no matter where we live, no matter where we come from.

"Never doubt that America will one day realize that her gay, bisexual, and transgendered sons and daughters want nothing more and nothing less than the rights afforded to every other citizen." - Tammy Baldwin

Intersectionality: Bring All Your Gifts to Help Others

Intersectionality, a term often discussed in diversity and inclusion circles, was brought to life at this PRIDE ALIVE event. Today's complex world underscores how identities such as sexual orientation, gender identity, and even veteran status intersect, always. It is these stitched together experiences that inform how we use technology and how we lead change in our daily lives. To tell me not to bring all of those parts of me to the challenges we face each day is like asking me to not breathe and somehow still live. It is practically impossible. It is all of these aspects of who I am that shape how I lead others in change, and how I influence the development of technology to "right the wrongs of the world." It is also what drives my insatiable desire to enhance democracy and accessibility so that the lessons learned from our personal histories can drive professional innovation to better humanity.

Embrace Technology Responsibly

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the responsible use of AI and data practices is critical for all of us, especially those of us living at the intersections of life. In this PRIDE ALIVE event we talked about how these technologies offer immense potential but also pose ethical challenges, sometimes unintended and almost always impactful. There is an emerging need for inclusive data practices that ensure all voices are represented and protected throughout the innovation cycle. We should continue to explore how AI can be a tool for connection and belonging, but it must be handled with care to avoid perpetuating biases, disparities and inequities. I talk about these challenges in my "Leading Change in an Era of AI" LinkedIn Newsletter, so feel free to join in on the discussion there.

Together We Always Go Farther

The power of events like PRIDE ALIVE resides in its call to action: to embrace and share our intersectional stories that may ultimately change the world. And to do it in a safe and secure way. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of identity and technology, I am honored to be invited to speak at events like PRIDE ALIVE. And in accepting invitations like this one, I am reminded of the importance of empathy, inclusion, and advocacy always.

"If you dream of a world in which there are more openly gay elected officials, then run for office and you will live in such a world." - Tammy Baldwin

Let’s continue to celebrate our diversity, share our stories, and strive for a future where every individual can live their truth openly and proudly, and securely in this era of AI.

Welcome your thoughts, reflections and discussions as we find pathways ahead together.

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