What the LGBT+ community has to share about AI, ERGs and Allies

Honestly, it would be almost impossible to write a short article about all the things our LGBTQ+ community has to say, but I can try to summarize it.

In the last week, I had the privilege of going to the Out & Equal LATAM Forum 2024. With others LGBT+ professionals and allies we shared knowledge and tools that could help businesses adopt ways of working, projects and methods to ensure a more inclusive organizational, products, and business. So to share some learning key points from the sessions I was present, here are a few words:

LGBTQ+ ERG Creation

During this session led by Ezequiel Massa , Jo?o Torres , Patricia Valloni , and Lucas Ronce ???? , the focus was on the creation and sustenance of LGBTQ+ ERG. Mainly to see how ERGs can support business objectives while fostering inclusivity, and to explore practical strategies for their implementation.

Building a community is the most powerful thing we could do

• The purpose of ERGs should always align with business goals.
• Understand the cultural readiness of the organization before initiating ERGs. Maybe it’s not a good idea to do it, if you are not ready for it.
• Identify global and local senior leaders to sponsor ERGs. Leaders are always a role model.
• Provide ongoing education within ERGs, covering diverse LGBTQ+ topics throughout the year for everyone — LGBT employees included.
• Emphasize the importance of continuous work and feedback to nurture the growth of ERGs, just like watering a plant to prevent it from withering away.
• Adapt the KPIs for regional ERGs to suit different cultural contexts and realities.
• Facilitate separate discussion and engagement sessions within ERGs to cater to diverse audiences and ensure everyone feels heard and valued, but also to ensure the work is done.

AI for Diversity and Inclusion

In this session with Rafa Mores and Pri Bertucci ?????????? , the spotlight was on the intersection of AI and diversity. The primary aim was to evaluate the current landscape of AI in accommodating non-binary identities and to discuss the importance of inclusive AI development for fostering diversity and inclusion. One thing is for sure: AI's current landscape lacks preparation to accommodate non-binary identities.

• The evaluation of RIE, the world's first non-binary AI, underscores the need for inclusive AI development.
• We need to ensure local legislations exists around AI to ensure accountability, transparency, and ethical use of AI.
• We need to prioritize diversity in AI development, address biases, and actively involve diverse voices in the design and implementation of AI technologies.
• AI can help marginalized communities by providing access to education, and essential services through innovative solutions and personalized support.

Companies need to educate everyone about AI, with ethhics and work tips, to ensure we can be more productive - Karla Arnaiz

Allyship Session

Led by Cecilia De la Vega Gutiérrez , the allyship session delved into the vital role allies play in promoting diversity and inclusion, and the significance of allyship in organizational settings.

• Being an ally is different from just being a good citizen.
• Allies should strive to understand their privileges while fostering empathy.
• Allyship requires continuous education and active participation.
• Allies must amplify marginalized voices by raising their hands and voices.

To all Allies: When I need you the most, that's where I'm not there. - Cecilia De la Vega Gutiérrez

As you can see, the Out & Equal LATAM Forum 2024 was an immersive experience, offering actionable strategies to drive LGBTQ+ inclusion and diversity across workplaces and business.

Thanks Rafael Andrade ????? for inviting me and all the others speakers who made this event so great!

Antonia Moreira , Deena Fidas , Luana (Lua) Gimenez , Javier Constante , Erin Uritus , Salom?o Cunha Lima ????? , Maristela Zago , Priscila Hayasaka , David Hodge , Maggie Esteva , Ananda Puchta ???????? , Elizabeth Tomanguilla , Benilda Brito , and so many others.

For more details about the event, visit https://outandequal.org/event/forum-latam-2024/ and follow Out & Equal on social media.

#LATAMForum2024 #LGBT #LGBTQ #LGBTQIA+ #Inclusion #Equality #Diversity #Workplace #LatinAmerica

Images rights reserved by Out & Equal and Patricia Valloni