LGBT*IQ Awards 2019

Big Impact Initiative Award:
be.queer LGBTIQ and allies at Bertelsmann

This year, the award in the Big Impact Initiative category went to Bertelsmann’s be.queer network. To mark this year’s Coming Out Day, the company published creative contributions designed to make its own employees more aware of the topic of coming out in the workplace. For example, rather than focusing just on their own group, the network used the project as an opportunity to get several generations and departments of the company involved. To this end, they initiated the first cross‑division trainee project and thus prompted several companies to consider a change in perspective. “We have a social responsibility and are a powerful instrument for the population at large. The video allows us to draw attention to the topic in society, too, using one of our trade marks – the moving image.

Rising Star Award:
MORE* Queer@OttoGroup

The Otto Group’s MORE* network won the Rising Star Award 2019. Founded as recently as late July 2019, the network has adopted a clear role within the company with the familiar objective of bringing employees together – whether they are queer, allies or simply curious. They actively take a stand in favour of LGBTIQ diversity and against discrimination, and lend a voice to those who have not (yet) found theirs. They have already succeeded in getting the rainbow flag permanently positioned between the Group’s flags and have also ensured that, in future, employees will make their way into work via a specially created Pride Walk. Over 200 employees are now part of the network. And the clear message from all involved is: “We are convinced that in public debates corporate groups have a growing social responsibility and must actively take a stand in favour of diversity.”

Global Leader Network Award:
dbPride – Deutsche Bank’s LGBTQI network

Deutsche Bank’s dbPride network received the Global Leader Network Award 2019. Thanks to impressive activities in various countries, they demonstrated how they promote equal opportunities for LGBTIQ people. They use targeted campaigns not only to advocate actual change for the better within their own corporate culture, but also to play an active part in global efforts to change the political and societal situation of LGBTIQ people. They were actively involved in the drafting of the LGBTI Standards of Conduct for Business and are among the most committed members of various initiatives, declarations and statements. Determined and effective, this network ensures that their company translates its corporate philosophy into deeds.