Building Pride: Honoring History, Supporting Colleagues

Building Pride: Honoring History, Supporting Colleagues

The construction industry employs millions of Americans from all walks of life, including LGBTQ+ workers who contribute their skills, dedication, and expertise to building our communities. Studies suggest that approximately 4-6% of the workforce identifies as LGBTQ+, meaning that in any construction company, crew, or project site, you’re likely working alongside LGBTQ+ colleagues, subcontractors, clients, and community members.

At Samet, we believe that creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work leads to stronger teams, better projects, and more vibrant communities. Understanding the history and significance of Pride Month helps us support our colleagues and demonstrate our commitment to equality and respect for all.

Pride Month began with a moment of courage and resistance. On June 28, 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a small bar in Greenwich Village, New York City, that served as one of the few safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals. Unlike previous raids, this time the patrons and community members stood up and fought back in what became a six-day demonstration for dignity and rights.

This uprising was significant because it brought thousands together, received widespread media attention, and led to the formation of numerous advocacy organizations. Important figures included transgender activists like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, among many others who helped spark the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

One year later, on June 28, 1970, thousands participated in the first Christopher Street Liberation Day March—America’s first gay pride parade—walking 51 blocks from the Stonewall Inn to Central Park. President Bill Clinton officially designated June as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month in 1999.

Pride Month serves as both celebration and call to action. The events that unfolded over those six days in 1969 fundamentally changed the discourse surrounding LGBTQ+ activism in the United States. While significant legal victories have been achieved, including marriage equality in 2015, the LGBTQ+ community continues to face challenges.

The spirit of Stonewall—the refusal to accept unjust treatment and the courage to fight back—continues to inspire new generations. Pride marches remain vital demonstrations of resilience, demanding not just tolerance but full equality and acceptance.

As we commemorate Pride Month each June, we honor both the progress made and the work that remains. The marches serve as powerful reminders that pride is not just celebration but a form of resistance—a declaration that LGBTQ+ lives have value, dignity, and the right to exist openly and safely in society.

Remember: Being LGBTQ+ is not a mental illness. Mental health challenges often result from external factors like workplace discrimination or lack of family support, not from someone’s identity.

Immediate Crisis Support

—988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (available 24/7). Press 3 for LGBTQ+-trained counselors
— The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 – Crisis support specifically for LGBTQ+ youth
— Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for immediate mental health support

Finding Professional Help

— Psychology Today: Search for LGBTQ+-friendly therapists in your area
— Your Health Insurance: Most insurers have directories that filter for LGBTQ+-competent providers
— Local LGBTQ+ Centers: Often maintain vetted lists of affirming mental health professionals
— Samet’s Employee Assistance Program through Mutual of Omaha demonstrates a commitment to LGBTQ+ Inclusion though various initiatives such as ERGs to foster a supportive and inclusive work environment, sponsoring pride events, etc.