Pride at Calisen: moving beyond awareness to visible community impact
At Calisen, we believe acknowledging this history is essential to how we look forward.
Pride Month serves as an annual moment to elevate the LGBTQ+ community, championed by allies who recognise that the journey toward true inclusion is a collective responsibility.
Pride at Calisen: moving beyond awareness to visible community impact
Pride began as a protest over 75 years ago, and the progress made by those pioneers remains a cornerstone of the equality we strive for today. Pride Month serves as an annual moment to elevate the LGBTQ+ community, championed by allies who recognise that the journey toward true inclusion is a collective responsibility.
For many, Pride is a deeply personal experience. While younger generations may find broader representation in modern media, the resilience of those who came before is rooted in navigating significant adversity, fighting for fundamental rights, reshaping legislation, and bringing marriage equality to many countries. At Calisen, we believe acknowledging this history is essential to how we look forward.
Rooted in our community
Our identity is firmly cemented in the North West, particularly here in Wigan. We believe this extends beyond our operations; it means being deeply embedded within the communities we serve.
Recently, we hosted an internal panel to explore the evolution of Pride through a community lens. Chaired by Alison Lang, Executive Director for Products and Assets and a proud ally, the session facilitated an open dialogue with our long-standing partners, Wigan Youth Zone. Together, we explored critical topics, from youth support and access to navigating the complexities of digital spaces for those under 16.
Reflecting on the event, Alison shares:
“Pride is a powerful reminder of why visibility, community, and allyship matter so much. It is a chance for people to feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are. It also serves as a reminder that the work of building equality and belonging is far from over. At Calisen, we are committed to shifting from internal awareness to showing up in the communities where we work. It was great to hear the perspective of the youth workers on the issues facing the younger generation. It reminded us of the importance of human connection, understanding and support. This is a long-term commitment; we are not just marking a moment but actively embedding this advocacy into our ongoing operations for the future.” Alison Lang
Executive Director for Products and Assets
Inclusion as a business imperative
Inclusion is not isolated to an awareness day; it is intrinsically connected to our business. It defines how we support our people and our customers. Authenticity and connection are shared responsibilities between those in and out of the community. Allyship is the key to unlocking a culture where everyone feels welcome.
Our ExCo sponsor Diane adds:
"Building a truly inclusive culture isn’t about one moment or event; it’s about continuous allyship, making sure everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to be their authentic self. Because when people can truly be themselves, both they and the organisation thrive." Dr Diane Bitzel
CTO
As we continue this journey, we acknowledge that language has many nuances, and we will not always get everything right. However, by leaning into the uncomfortable, we open the door to learning and growth.
