Throughout the month of June, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota is celebrating the many contributions of Blue Pride, an associate resource group (ARG) for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual associates (LGBTQIA+) and their allies.

Members of the Blue Pride ARG at the annual RECLAIM Celebrate The Love event.

Living the Blue Cross mission

Blue Pride is dedicated to being a networking and collaboration resource for Blue Cross associates, reflecting how the mission, vision and goals of Blue Cross emphasize the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB).

“Blue Cross values a diverse and inclusive workplace with an emphasis on belonging,” says Ryan Foster, employer brand marketing and operations manager and Blue Pride ARG member. “We’re prioritizing a shared sense of community. If we want to succeed together, we must ensure everyone is seen, heard and comfortable being the best versions of themselves.”

In 2022, Blue Cross received a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s annual Corporate Equality Index for its commitment to hiring and supporting LGBTQIA+ associates with a goal of achieving racial and health equity (RHE) across all communities.

“I think our recruiting efforts within the LGBTQIA+ community deserve to be celebrated,” said Jason Lawton, Blue Pride co-chair and senior talent development consultant. “The Pride ARG aligns heavily with RHE and DEIB initiatives in the company’s strategy. This includes finding talent that represents all of the communities we serve.”

Blue Pride’s personal and professional impact

Dana Sanders, Blue Pride co-chair and service operations supervisor, joined Blue Pride as an ally and eventually stepped into her current role as co-chair.

“Taking a leadership role with the Pride ARG was important for me because I want to ensure all associates can bring their true, authentic selves to work,” Sanders said. “It’s also important to me to learn how to be a good ally and advocate and support the LGBTQIA+ community.”

“We’re focused on creating safe spaces and a sense of community at work,” Lawton says. “Blue Pride and the other ARGs at Blue Cross help to reinforce a culture of belonging where everyone is welcomed, accepted, respected and celebrated.”

Twin Cities Pride

Among the many ways to support LGBTQIA+ communities is through attending the Twin Cities Pride in Minneapolis. Blue Pride hosts a booth every year to share information about the Blue Cross mission and support of the community.

“I’m excited to participate in Twin Cities Pride this year,” Foster said. “I’m proud to show up with a company that proudly supports our LGBTQIA+ and allied associates.”

Blue Pride members and Blue Cross associates at Twin Cities Pride, 2022.

Twin Cities Pride runs June 23-25 in Loring Park. To learn more about Twin Cities Pride, visit their website.