5 Things / Humanizing
Listen to this episode:
It’s broken my heart how my transgender friends and colleagues have been dehumanized this election season and beyond. It’s Trans Awareness Week so I’m sharing episodes of 5 Things in 15 Minutes to humanize some previous trans guests. Check these out on any podcast platform or directly in the links below.
Gearah Goldstein (she/her) and I spoke about the importance of telling positive stories and representations of young trans people. Gearah is the ultimate compassionate leader and brings peaceful energy into every environment.
Rex Wilde (they/them) and I had a great chat about recovering from mistaken assumptions. Rex was recently recognized by Leaderology as a recipient of this year's Fearlessly Authentic Leadership Awards.
Celia Daniels (she/her) and I talked about her daughter, her love of music, and her Indian heritage. She shared about how being trans is one of the least interesting things about her.
Erma Ishara (they/he) is on my team and one of the things I most appreciate about Ishara is their thoughtfulness and intentionality. They bring deep wisdom to our clients and you can tell in this episode.
Erica Vogel (she/her) wrote the part-memoir, part-advice column book Advice from Your Trans Aunty. She’s also a wife, a mom, and an expert product manager.
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
Staten Island Parade Finally Catches Up
For the first time in 60 years, Staten Island’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade will welcome LGBTQ+ groups under their own banner. The new leader ended the parade’s decades-long exclusionary policy, a stark contrast to its past rooted in Catholic doctrine. The Pride Center of Staten Island, long denied participation, will finally march, marking a milestone for inclusion in the borough. ♐Advocate for leadership change when needed to spark progress.
Darts, Drama, and Breaking Barriers
Noa-Lynn Van Leuven became the first out-trans competitor in the Grand Slam of Darts, a milestone for inclusion in professional sports. Noa-Lynn is ranked 5th globally among women dart players. Despite boos from the crowd and criticism from some players, she competed alongside top-ranked dart legends. ♐Support diverse representation in all areas of life, even random sports.
Llama Kisses: Travel Anxiety, Cured
Beni the llama and Captain Jack the alpaca are redefining stress relief at Portland International Airport. Part of an innovative animal therapy program, these gentle ambassadors bring joy to travelers with their soft fur, sweet faces, and even "carrot kisses." Evidence suggests therapy animals can ease anxiety, and seeing these rare, specially trained creatures in action proves their calming power. ♐Use creative, nature-inspired strategies to reduce anxiety.
Period Leave Progress in Odisha
Odisha, an Indian state, introduced a one-day paid menstrual leave policy for women in government and private sectors, joining Bihar and Kerala as states with similar measures. This is very rare around the world. The policy allows women to take leave on the first or second day of their cycle, aiming to address workplace well-being and health concerns. ♐ Menstrual leave reduces stigma and promotes equity in workplaces.
Equal Rights for Everyone, Period
New York voters approved Proposal 1, an Equal Rights Amendment expanding anti-discrimination protections in the state constitution. It now safeguards against discrimination based on ethnicity, gender identity, pregnancy outcomes, and reproductive healthcare, among others. The amendment also protects trans rights and gender expression. ♐Protect marginalized groups in uncertain political times!
Good Vibes to Go:
On Wednesday, attend Rex Wilde’s next virtual gathering space for DEI, HR, and ERG leaders to discuss all things TGX+.