Visibility Campaign: Rena Fox

As part of LGBTQ+ History Month, we are sharing our very first Visibility Campaign, where we look to our diverse and talented staff, to tell their stories and shed light on the rich cultural diversity that exists in our workforce. Today's spotlight goes to Rena Fox (she/her), SHRM-CP, HR Generalist.

Your connection to the LGBTQ+ community: I have a nephew who is part of the LGBTQ+ community. I also have a passion for support/advocacy because I have seen, and lived his struggle with him. The discrimination, oppression, and the mistreatment that he has experienced has made me want to make a difference, in any way I can. Sometimes, he actually has to hide because he doesn’t want people to judge him. The stigma has led to the deterioration of his mental health, among other things.

What are some ways folks can advocate for the LGBTQ+ community right now? Through education and communication. Even just regarding the language that we use. Personally, I had a hard time knowing whether or not to use she, they, or he for a Wheeler Candidate, so for me personally, I would like there to be more communication and education about the different populations we serve ( since HR is a bit removed from the clinical side of things).

How can we better support LGBTQ+ identifying staff, and LGBTQ+ allied staff, having increased visibility internally? We could send out internal communications about significant dates or events in the LGBTQ+community, (like we would for Black History Month for example), in addition to providing spotlight on key LGBTQI+ leaders at the organization, and the work they do to advance advocacy.

Thank you Rena for sharing!