Staff members across SOM’s offices in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, London, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and Dubai gathered together—in person and via video feed—to raise a global “Toast to Pride” on Thursday, July 27. Coordinated to take place simultaneously across five time zones, the event was organized by SOM Pride, a group committed to empowering the firm’s LGBTQI+ community and fostering an open and inclusive workplace.
The “Toast to Pride” continues a month-long series of events, conversations, and celebrations at SOM’s offices in our local cities and communities, with the aim to elevate the voices of the LGBTQI+ community in the design profession.
SOM Pride works together across offices and regions to provide meaningful support and affirmation with regard to gender, sexuality, and intersecting identities. Launched in 2018, SOM Pride seeks to effect positive change within the culture of the firm, and to serve as an advocacy and educational group with influence in the broader architectural industry. Partnering with and learning from other LGBTQI+ organizations and their allies in the architectural, engineering, and construction industries, SOM Pride increases visibility for and serves the diverse needs of its community.