Celebrating Pride Month with Christine Wallace

We're celebrating Pride Month by highlighting Christine Wallace, a dedicated ally and champion of BPM’s LGBTQIA+ Colleague Resource Group (CRG). Christine shared with us what inspired her to get involved, how the group has shaped her sense of belonging, and what Pride means to her both personally and professionally. Her reflections offer insight into the power of allyship and the importance of creating inclusive spaces year-round.

Why did you join BPM's LGBTQIA+ CRG, and how has your involvement impacted your sense of belonging at BPM?

Joining this amazing group has been incredibly meaningful to me. My main reason for getting involved was to support and uplift the LGBTQIA+ community within our organization. A major influence in my decision to join the CRG was Sarah Lynn — she’s been a remarkable example, showing that being an ally and actively standing up for the LGBTQIA+ community is one of the most impactful ways to offer support. Inspired by her, I realized how important it is to let everyone know they have a safe space, both at work and with me personally. I also joined to learn more about the LGBTQIA+ community and find ways to become a better ally. Being a part of this CRG has truly enhanced my sense of belonging at BPM, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a welcoming and inclusive environment.

What does Pride mean to you personally, and how do you celebrate it, both inside and outside of work?

To me, Pride is about promoting visibility and acceptance for the LGBTQIA+ community every day of the year, not just during Pride Month. I celebrate by participating in events and parades, volunteering, and engaging with the LGBTQIA+ community. These experiences allow me to learn more about the challenges the community faces and how we can work together to overcome them.

At work, I celebrate Pride by actively promoting and participating in BPM’s LGBTQIA+ CRG events and proudly serving as a CRG champion. Supporting this group is essential to me because it fosters a sense of safety and belonging. I also spend time educating myself and others on the importance of inclusivity and being an active ally.

Outside of work, Pride means my family and friends know they have someone who supports and stands by them — and the entire LGBTQIA+ community — 365 days a year. I make it a point to stay informed and encourage those around me to advocate and get involved as well.

How can allies support the LGBTQIA+ community within the workplace?

As allies, we play an important role in advocating for inclusive policies that ensure everyone feels respected and valued at BPM. That means speaking up against any form of discrimination or bias when we see it. Doing so helps create a workplace where people feel safe, seen, and empowered to be themselves.

It's vital that we promote a culture of acceptance and support for our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We can all contribute by backing diversity and inclusion initiatives and working to maintain a safe, welcoming space for everyone.

Stay tuned to learn more about our LGBTQIA+ CRG members every Friday!