We sat down with Grant, an executive assistant in our Tampa Service Center, to learn why Equal at McKinsey (McKinsey’s LGBTQ+ network) and Pride are important to him.
June is Pride Month – what does Pride mean to you?
To me, Pride is a call to action. The Stonewall Riots were a moment in history when the LGBTQ+ community stood up and fought back against oppression and discrimination. Every year, I try to honor those brave warriors and reflect on what I can do to fight for my community. As a transgender man, one of my focuses has been to increase transgender visibility, and I have been proud to walk in the Trans Pride March that kicks off the St. Pete Pride Parade, the largest Pride celebration in the South.
What was the last good show you’ve watched?
I just finished watching Ryan Murphy’s Hollywood on Netflix and I thought it was fantastic. I was struck by how much queer representation in media has improved during the last 25 years. This mini-series featured both gay and lesbian relationships, and showcased queer characters as complex, multifaceted people rather than one-dimensional caricatures. Several episodes were written or directed by Janet Mock, a fabulously talented trans woman of color.
What does McKinsey Equal at McKinsey mean to you?
McKinsey Equal at McKinsey really is my queer family at work. It is a wonderful community of people who are committed to advancing the experience of LGBTQ+ people in and out of the firm. The camaraderie and sense of shared purpose is rewarding and makes me feel I can create impact beyond my daily role. For example, I was a panelist on a North American “Ask Me Anything” webinar about Transgender Visibility and I facilitated a Transgender Awareness presentation for the Tampa Service Center. These experiences make me feel incredibly proud, engaged, and empowered to influence people who will go on to influence the world.
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