Like the organization Im proud to lead, the movement for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion was born in an era of profound challenge. In the 1990s, the concept of comprehensive protections for LGBTQ+ people seemed distant, and the legal and political climate was grim. Yet even then, something powerful was underway. Employers began recognizing the strength that comes from building a sense of belonging.In times of adversity, weve always drawn on our collective strength. Together, we imagined and implemented changes long before the law offered us protections. Major employers led the way, creating nondiscrimination policies, LGBTQ+-inclusive benefits, and equitable practices that strengthened both their businesses and the communities around them. Related 6 organizations building community for queer families & prospective parents That leadership reshaped the landscape. Long before marriage equality became law of the land, most Fortune 500 companies were already providing domestic partner benefits. Years before the courts acted, many of our current policies and safeguards began in workplaces.Today, the vision of a future where no one must choose between being out and being equal at work is being tested. But its also buoyed by decades of progress. Our work has built on storytelling, authentically bringing our talents to work, using our economic influence, and engaging allies who understood that inclusion benefits everyone. Dive deeper every day Join our newsletter for thought-provoking commentary that goes beyond the surface of LGBTQ+ issues Subscribe to our Newsletter today These moments call for unity. Through the resilience of our community, we have achieved extraordinary progress. And through that same strength, we will continue to evolve, adapt, and again meet the moment together.The results are clear. From data on corporate inclusion to generational shifts to the undeniable talent and spending power of LGBTQ+ people, we can see how far weve come. And its all thanks to the power of community.For decades, Out & Equal has enabled this collective power to flourish through Workplace Summit, our annual gathering dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion through learning, networking, and shared action. From October 13 to 16 in Seattle, thousands of executives, advocates, and ERG leaders will gather once again to cut through the noise of headlines and division and learn from experts and peers. The largest event of its kind, Summit features more than 100 sessions, including workshops, keynotes, and panels on inclusive leadership, ERG innovation, and building cultures where everyone can thrive. | Provided This years theme We Rise. Together. Forward. Now. reflects the urgency were facing as a community. And the speakers reflect a range of stories that inspire action. Kenji Yoshino, Chief Justice Earl Warren Professor of Constitutional Law at NYU and co-author of Say the Right Thing, will offer actionable insights on identity, justice, and workplace change. Emmy-winning writer Harper Steele, who shaped comedy at Saturday Night Live and Funny or Die, will share her personal story of authenticity and visibility. And Justin David Sullivan, the breakout star of Broadways & Juliet, will provide their perspective as a proud Mexicasian trans non-binary artist advocating for a more inclusive future.These voices and the action they inspire are vital because significant challenges lie ahead. Recent court casesfrom U.S. v. Skrmetti, which allowed state bans on gender-affirming care for minors, to Kennedy v. Braidwood, which preserved access to preventive healthcareshow how fragile progress can be. In the coming term, the Supreme Court will weigh cases on bans of so-called conversion therapy and on transgender student athletes, decisions that will shape lives far beyond the courtroom.These moments call for unity. Businesses, advocacy groups, and individuals must work together to safeguard protections, sustain benefits, and strengthen workplace inclusion. Through the resilience of our community, we have achieved extraordinary progress. And through that same strength, we will continue to evolve, adapt, and again meet the moment together.Erin Uritus | Provided Erin Uritus is CEO of Out & Equal, which helps organizations of all types attract and retain top talent, promote innovation, and drive results by advancing inclusion in the workplace. To register for the 2025 Out & Equal Workplace Summit, October 1316 in Seattle, visit our website.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.