Associates Reflect, Empower, Unite for Pride Month

ESFM believes in creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels welcome, respected and a sense of belonging.

During Pride Month in June, a time to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community, associates shared personal stories, participated in meaningful events and ruminated on this year’s theme: Reflect. Empower. Unite. We shared what these words mean to some of our associates in a video:

“I want to bring more awareness to creating a culture of Belonging within our company,” Elise Weiss, ESFM HR Manager and Diversity & Inclusion Action Council (DIAC) Co-Chair, said. “Not only should everyone be included, but their ideas, opinions, thoughts, contributions should all be valued as well. Our need to belong is in line with our need for love. This analogy describes just how important Belonging is. When we feel like we belong, we are comfortable enough to be our authentic selves. Imagine a company (and a world) where we all feel completely free to unapologetically express our true selves!”

Unapologetic expression allows people to connect on many levels: to celebrate together and also to share in hardships and struggles.

Marcus Sprecher, ESFM Talent Acquisition Specialist, mourned the loss of his mother in March.

“She shaped me into who I am today by teaching me to be accepting and understanding of others no matter the situation,” he said.

That understanding drives Sprecher to help others reach their potential and is why he chose to focus on the word “empower” this month.

“I use this word daily in my role to empower others to be a better version of themselves,” Sprecher said. “Understanding what makes us all unique and the ability to empower others to do great things!”