Pride Month is a time of celebration, reflection, and solidarity. For many, it’s a vibrant expression of identity and progress. But as Claire Mooney, who works for PSR as a Candidate Manager insightfully reminds us, it’s also a time to remember the roots of Pride as a protest, a movement born from the fight for equality and justice. 

Claire is a an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community and actively participates in pride-related events at our Belfast office. She is deeply passionate about promoting inclusiveness and equal opportunities for all, with a strong focus on raising awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community and ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and supported in bringing their whole selves to work.

“While things have gotten a lot better for the LGBTQIA+ community there are some things that are starting to be rolled back. We seem to be going backwards,” Claire shared.

This duality celebration and protest is what makes Pride Month so powerful. And within organisations, it’s the community that brings this power to life. 

This month, Natalie Taylor, PSR Diversity Specialist, sat down with Claire to get her perspective on Pride month, her personal experiences and how this has impacted her in the workplace:

Q: What does Pride Month mean to you personally?
It’s a really important thing to celebrate. We should never forget that Pride started as a protest. Unfortunately, while things have improved, we’ve seen some rights rolled back. Pride Month is a time to focus on a minority community, to express and feel comfortable with who they are. Everybody has the right to feel comfortable with who they are all year round.

Q: Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your identity at work?
Being involved with AMS at the Belfast Pride Parade in 2022 was a standout moment. It was a great day, a great environment, and I got to meet other colleagues I don’t directly work with. The love the parade received was unreal. It showed that AMS supports all of its employees, regardless of background. AMS remains authentic and bold in that respect.

Q: How has your understanding of Pride evolved over the years, especially in a professional context?
You don’t come into work to lay out your personal life. But if someone is struggling with their identity, it’s encouraging to have the ERG or to see colleagues being out and proud without backlash. Seeing senior leaders being authentic about their identity is really powerful.

Q: How has being part of AMS’ LGBTQ+ ERG (Employee Resource Group) impacted your experience at work?
The sense of community is amazing. Knowing there are others like me within AMS brings comfort. If someone is struggling with their sexuality, it’s reassuring to know there are people to talk to and resources to lean on. You don’t have to be part of the community to join allies are welcome too.

Q: What role do ERGs play in creating a more inclusive workplace?
They help build visibility, connection, and support. They show that the company values inclusion and gives people a voice.

Q: Can you share a specific initiative or event that made a meaningful difference?
There was an after-work LGBTQ+ event focused on sharing personal stories. I found it really inspiring and impactful especially in terms of building the wider community in Northern Ireland.

Q: What does it mean to bring your whole self to work?

It makes me feel comfortable and safe, knowing there’s no judgment. It creates a better work environment where everyone can be their authentic self. Everyone’s individual background is embraced  it’s about the person.

Q: What kind of support has helped you feel safe and seen at work?
Definitely the ERGs, mental health first aiders, and approachable colleagues and managers. Senior leadership embracing authenticity they talk to everyone, no matter your career level.

Q: What advice would you give to companies looking to better support LGBTQ+ employees?
Create ERGs or staff networks. It helps people connect with others who understand what they’re going through. Highlight important dates, show allyship, and be visible in the community. Even internal and external social posts help people feel supported and seen.

Q: What changes would you love to see for future generations of LGBTQ+ professionals?
Just embrace individuals for who they are no matter their identity or background. There should be no question about accepting people.

Q: How can allies show up all year round?
Check Viva Engage or your organisations internal comms platform, join an ERG call, attend events, and just show up for your colleagues. Always stand up for what’s right. Open and honest dialogue is a great place to start.

Gordon Stuart, CEO of AMS, shared at the beginning of Pride Month:

As we begin Pride Month, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the importance of this occasion… Our theme is ‘Shine On’. At AMS, we firmly believe that a thriving workplace is one where every individual feels safe, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work I invite you to lean in with curiosity, compassion, and courage.

Nikki Hall, Executive Sponsor of the LGBTQIA+ and Allies ERG, added:

Pride is more than a celebration. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength it takes to be your authentic self… At AMS, that sense of belonging isn’t just a value it’s a strategic priority. Whether Pride for you means celebration, reflection, or solidarity your voice and presence matter.

Pride with Purpose

Claire Mooney’s reflections, experiences and perspective remind us that Pride Month is more than a celebration.  It’s a powerful expression of identity, resilience, and community. At AMS, the commitment to authenticity, allyship, and inclusion is not just a seasonal message but a year-round mission. Through ERGs, leadership support, and everyday acts of solidarity, AMS continues to foster a workplace where everyone feels a sense of true belonging.

Pride in the UK: Did You Know?

• The UK’s first Pride march took place in London in 1972 with around 2,000 participants. Today, London Pride attracts over 1.5 million people annually.
• LGBTQ+ visibility is growing: According to the Office for National Statistics, 1 in 10 young people in the UK now identify as LGB.
• Challenges remain: A 2024 Stonewall report found that 64% of LGBTQ+ people in the UK have experienced anti-LGBTQ+ abuse or discrimination in the past year.
• Pride events are expanding: Over 150 Pride events are scheduled across the UK in 2025, from major cities to small towns showing that Pride is truly nationwide.

“While things have gotten a lot better for the LGBTQIA+ community there are some things that are starting to be rolled back. We seem to be going backwards,” Claire Mooney - PSR Candidate Manager and active member of the LGBTQIA+ Community.

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