By: Sade Sydney (Manager, Payroll)

At TKWW, I have the privilege of being my full, authentic self every day. In a world where many people—especially Black and LGBTQ+ individuals—still face challenges in finding safe and supportive spaces, this is something I don’t take for granted.

As we recognize Juneteenth and Pride Month, I find myself reflecting on what these celebrations mean to me—not just as historical milestones but as deeply personal reminders of the power of visibility, liberation, and belonging.

At first glance, Juneteenth and Pride may seem like separate celebrations, but they are both rooted in the fight for liberation.

Juneteenth (June 19th) marks the day in 1865 when enslaved Black people in Texas were finally informed of their freedom—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It reminds us that freedom delayed is not freedom denied, and that justice requires persistence.

Pride Month commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Riots, led largely by Black and Brown trans women and activists like Marsha P. Johnson. Their courage ignited the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, pushing us closer to true equality.

Both Juneteenth and Pride celebrate progress while recognizing that the fight is far from over. They remind us that freedom is not just a moment in history—it’s an ongoing pursuit.

One of the things I value most about working at TKWW is how genuinely inclusive our culture is. I don’t have to filter parts of myself—I can openly share my life, my identity, and my experiences without fear of judgment.

That sense of belonging isn’t just a tagline at TKWW—it’s something I feel every day in real, tangible ways. I’ve never had to second-guess whether I can talk about my partner or share parts of my life. I can speak openly, just like anyone else, without fear of judgment. That kind of comfort is something I don’t take lightly.

Earlier this year, following a series of executive orders that stirred real concern across the LGBTQIA+ community, our Pride ERG sent out a message that I’ll never forget. It didn’t try to gloss over what was happening—it acknowledged the fear, confusion, and frustration many of us were feeling. But more importantly, it reminded us that we weren’t alone. We were offered context, reassurance, and actionable support. We were told it’s okay to pause, to take care of ourselves, and to lean on each other. That moment reminded me just how deeply rooted compassion is in our culture.

It’s one thing to be accepted at work—it’s another to be actively supported when the world feels heavy. In a time when many still feel pressure to hide or downplay who they are, I’m grateful to work in a place where I can be both Black and queer, and feel not just seen, but truly valued.

While I may not be the most active member of our Pride & Black @  TKWW ERGs, just knowing that this space exists means something. It’s a reminder that our company isn’t just talking about diversity—it’s actively creating a culture where people can thrive.

If there’s one thing Juneteenth and Pride teach us, it’s that progress happens when people show up. Here are some ways we can continue fostering inclusion:

• Listen and Learn: Educate yourself on Black and LGBTQ+ history, intersectionality, and lived experiences. 
• Use Your Voice: Speak up against discrimination, uplift marginalized voices, and advocate for equity.
• Support ERGs and Initiatives: Engage with company programs that promote inclusion, even if it’s just by attending an event or amplifying the message.
• Celebrate, Not Just in June: Recognize that inclusion is an ongoing effort, not just a one-month celebration.

As a TKWW leader, I support inclusion by showing up as my full, authentic self every day. I speak openly about who I am and create space where others feel safe to do the same. I also try to be a thoughtful listener and make sure people feel seen and respected.

My advice? You don’t need a big platform to make a meaningful impact. Inclusion starts with how you treat people—being kind, intentional, and open makes all the difference.

As we celebrate Juneteenth and Pride, let’s continue to show up for one another, today and every day.