Standing up for queer rights: A commitment to diversity

For us at thyssenkrupp, one thing is clear: participating in Pride, or Christopher Street Day (CSD) protests, means carrying our lived corporate reality outward. Our values unite us – and are more important than ever. This concerns both individuals and corporations. On special occasions such as Pride and on any other day. What does that mean for us at thyssenkrupp?

From riots to mass protests

Taking a stance? Absolutely. Simply talking about diversity is not enough. Companies must be active and take action. One concrete opportunity are the worldwide protests around Christopher Street Day. The Pride marches advocate for the rights of queer people, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, intersex, and trans* people among others. Acceptance for the community is decreasing in many corners of the world – and in some cases, their rights are being massively infringed. It is therefore critical to be vocal now.

Christopher Street Day grew out of queer activism in 1960s New York. The "Stonewall Riots", triggered by police violence towards LGBTQIA+ people, developed into a protest movement that reached Germany in 1979. Nowadays, walking alongside activists are political parties, unions and corporations. The latter are standing up for their queer employees – and by doing so, they are sending a clear signal: all people are welcome among us.

Between accusations and responsibility

Companies are part of society and therefore have a certain degree of responsibility. For many, taking part in Pride is a way of doing that responsibility justice, and yet their participation continues to spark debates. There is a growing tendency of accusing corporations of "rainbow washing", the symbolic positioning for queer topics without taking action. Activists have raised criticism that Pride marches have turned into advertising opportunities. And participating has been reduced to an employer branding initiative. A mere commercial strategy, aimed at appearing progressive and recruiting a queer workforce. In part, companies have resorted to withdrawing their participation – due to increasing fear of criticism, backlash or larger consequences. Although more and more people are coming out publicly, queer people still form a minority. A minority whose rights are increasingly under attack. Taking a stand for the community is therefore a sign of solidarity, not an instrument in marketing or a strategy in recruiting. For us at thyssenkrupp, taking a stance is neither a question of timing nor comfort. Especially in challenging times, we are convinced that our values are non-negotiable.

What signal are we sending out with our commitment to diversity?

At thyssenkrupp, participating in Pride is not a PR stunt. Instead, it is an expression of dedication in practice, carried by our #GENERATIONTK. Our employee networks PRIDE@tk and PRIDE@Steel are making sure that queer voices are being heard and supported. Our participation does not stop at the external impact: protesting together creates a sense of community and belonging. Seeing that colleagues are taking to the streets in support of queer rights can encourage queer individuals to come out at work. For queer employees, it is essential to have allies as a source of support. Because it creates an atmosphere in which everyone can live and work freely. A form of togetherness, due to which colleagues can talk about their partners, children, and lived reality without fearing rejection. And the more people and companies take a stand, the clearer the message gets: All people deserve a place society – with equal rights, unconditionally.

Celebrating values or protesting? Both!

But isn't Pride one large, colorful party? Yes – but not exclusively! Upon taking a closer look, it becomes evident: Behind the music and glitter there is a strong political message. Pride is about standing up for queer rights. To defend them, especially in uncomfortable times. The protest, however, also needs its euphoric atmosphere. After all, Pride is one of the few places and opportunities where queer people can freely and openly be themselves. Couples can walk down streets hand-in-hand on which they would usually turn their heads to check if anyone is watching before publicly displaying affection. People show up in whatever clothing they feel comfortable and safe in. Identities, relationships, and lived realities are celebrated – openly and confidently. Pride is a protest, but it is also liberation. A loud demonstration filled with joy. For many queer people, this feeling is exclusive to Pride. And yes: Partying is a form of protest, too. Because queer joy is an act of self-assertion – against exclusion, against fear. For visibility. For freedom.

Solidarity – all year round

Can't corporations support queer rights in a different way? Absolutely! And commitment must go further than their participation in Pride. However, one does not exclude the other. Events such as Pride marches need financial support: Large groups and companies ensure that Pride can even take place – particularly in smaller cities. Stage set-ups, tech, safety concepts, art and music programs – all of the above cost money. For those who do not want to take part in the protest or unable to do so, the cultural program offers an additional opportunity to get in touch with the queer community and come into contact with new perspectives. Especially the cultural scene has extensively been shaped by queer artists. Art – and celebrating – are also a form of activism.

Participating in Pride is only a small part of the bigger picture – employers committing to diversity in practice. At thyssenkrupp, it is our networks PRIDE@tk and PRIDE@Steel that actively shape our participation - as well as internal awareness campaigns, panel discussions and events regarding queerness in the workplace. Diversity is not only a claim for us, it is our lived reality. We're making it visible, we're protecting it – and we're celebrating it. At thyssenkrupp, we advocate for equality for all. We are making progress – and we are aware that we still have a way to go to get where we want to be. But we are taking steps in the right direction every day. We have signed the "Charta der Vielfalt" (diversity charter) and committed to diversity and inclusion initiatives. What binds us together is respect for one another – and the clear dedication to our values. Because at thyssenkrupp, everyone should feel safe and free to be themselves and to contribute in their own way. As a company we are an incremental part of society. And one thing is clear: Society has to remain diverse. Diversity is not a buzzword for us, but a promise instead. That's why we're taking to the streets again in 2025 – together with our community.