ARC is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive environment, not just during Pride Month, but throughout the entire year. Allyship should be reflected in daily actions, conversations and policies to ensure that every employee feels seen. From visible support during Pride Month to ongoing efforts that champion equity and belonging, ARC fosters a culture where everyone can thrive. In that spirit, three of our employees shared what inclusion and allyship look like at ARC.
Jennifer Watkins – Director, Payments
The creation of an inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ employees at ARC starts at the very top, with our president and CEO, Lauri Reishus, whose support has been instrumental and deeply impactful.ARC’s People and Culture team, led by Tanya Nass, gives life to inclusivity at ARC by supporting the ARC Pride Employee Resource Group, which has helped enact policies and benefits that support LGBTQIA+ employees, along with partnering with LGBTQIA+ organizations like the Human Rights Campaign and Out and Equal.
The LGBTQIA+ community is currently experiencing a challenging time. Sometimes, the most meaningful allyship can come from simply having someone ask how you are doing and let you know that they recognize when times are tough.
Bradford Goodwill – Manager of Compliance and Financial Guarantee
ARC values individuals for who they are and the contributions they bring, rather than any preconceived ideas about identity. ARC creates a space where everyone can be unapologetically themselves. I never feel apprehensive about how I’m perceived here. I am Bradford Goodwill, Manager of Compliance and Financial Guarantee, not “the gay manager.” ARC embraces me as a whole person, ready to contribute and collaborate like anyone else.
Amy McGillicuddy – Senior Graphic Designer
As many organizations roll back their Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, I’m pleased that ARC has remained committed to inclusivity. Without that, I wouldn’t feel safe. Staying rooted in allyship sets a precedent and helps shape societal acceptance and respect for marginalized groups. Creating a space to share experiences and knowledge with those who are willing to engage and learn, like we do in the ARC Pride Employee Resource Group, helps create an inclusive environment.
The growth and expansion of all the ERGs – and ARC’s willingness to support that – has made an impact on my career at ARC. It allows people from different backgrounds and experiences to connect and share and realize that, despite differences, we have a lot in common. It’s a basic human need to feel connected to those around you; from those experiences, you garner empathy and respect for others.
Learn more about our culture and the opportunities available at ARC.