To celebrate global Pride month, a number of our LGBTQ+ lawyers, business services colleagues and allies are sharing their own #MyPrideStory. New York based Dave Mowers, our Global People Engagement Director, shares his story and tells us how he's celebrating Pride this year
What does it mean to be part of the LGBTQ+ community?
For my generation, and living in New York City, it means that I'm part of a larger "chosen family" with all the fun, heartache, challenge, and advantages that go with it. I lean on my chosen family, and they lean on me.
What does it mean to be your whole, authentic self at work?
It allows me to be really present for my colleagues. When there's any part of your person that has to be held back, minimized, or hidden, it makes it really difficult to offer the rest of yourself to colleagues. It's all energy directed outward, and no reciprocity. In authentic relationships, energy flows both ways.
“Nothing beats being taken seriously and fully included in work by the people around me”
What does the Firm do to foster a stronger sense of belonging for all?
We are a Firm full of leaders on every level that model inclusiveness and openness. There are groups, programs, a great benefit offer; those things are wonderful. But work is work, and nothing beats being taken seriously and fully included in work by the people around me.
How does your experiences as an LGBTQ+ person positively impact your work and your career?
I'm open to relationships that have different and surprising structures. I think I feel an extra responsibility to mentor, promote, and support any colleague because I know how much it meant to me.
Why is Spectrum (White & Case's LGBTQ+ network) an important community for LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies?
Change in an organization takes teamwork. Nothing gets done on an independent basis. And nothing gets done without many hands.
What's your advice for the next generation of LGBTQ+ professionals?
Have patience with your colleagues. Really take it on board that you have to lead them into change. That means you have to work as hard to bring them along as you want them to work on your behalf.
How are you planning on celebrating Pride virtually this year?
My husband and I have a new home in Brooklyn with a terrace that looks out over Manhattan. We'll get to watch the lighted buildings, and fireworks. And every year I'm on the phone with the four core friends that went to my first ever Pride, in the 80s. That won't change.
