EP #49 | Building ERGs in Conservative Climates

Meet Will Butler: Advocating for LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in the Workplace

In this episode, Maceo Owens sits down with Will Butler, a passionate ERG leader with nearly a decade of experience championing LGBTQIA+ inclusion. From initiating conversations with diversity leaders in conservative spaces like Birmingham, Alabama, to co-founding an ERG at Bill Trust and earning a perfect score on the Corporate Equality Index, Will’s journey is one of courage, strategy, and impact.

We explore:
• How to establish ERGs in conservative regions while navigating resistance.
• The critical role of inclusive employee policies in driving change.
• Building authentic connections through events like drag bingo and cooking classes.
• Practical advice for ERG leaders working in environments where inclusion isn’t prioritized.
• The untapped potential of the queer dollar and its impact on business strategy.

Will’s story is a testament to how persistence and intentional advocacy can create lasting change, transforming workplaces into spaces where every employee feels valued and empowered.

Tune in for inspiration and actionable insights that will energize your own ERG journey!

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