Reflections During LGBTQ+ History Month

At Alkermes, we believe that diversity is one of our biggest strengths – that valuing our varied backgrounds, life experiences, and unique perspectives is critical to our success as a business. Having a diverse workforce influences our ability to innovate across the therapeutic spaces we operate in, where our goal is to improve the lives of people living with conditions that may often be stigmatizing. The way I see it, we have a moral imperative to ensure that all of #TeamAlkermes feels safe, respected and included as valued contributors to this team. To that end, our Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging (DIB) initiatives encompass and welcome all of our employees, putting forth mission-critical work, programs and policies that are actively growing Alkermes into the best version of itself for its people – the heart of who we are. 

As we enter LGBTQ+ History Month, it is worth saying this out loud because, sadly, acceptance and affirmation of all people are not universal.  The prejudice and even violence we see aimed at the LGBTQ+ community are increasingly alarming and undeniably clear: according to the FBI, anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes are increasing while violent crimes overall are decreasing¹. It is no wonder that LGBTQ+ people are more likely to experience serious mental health conditions including major depressive episodes and serious thoughts of suicide, along with an increased prevalence of substance use disorders, linked to stress from persistent discrimination and harassment.² It’s in all of our hands to fight against stigma and work towards a world of greater acceptance – we have an obligation to be part of the solution, part of realizing the kind of future we hope to exist in, for ourselves, our friends and loved ones, and future generations. 

One way we can do this is by working to create safe, inclusive places for people right where we are. Through our PRIDE@Work Employee Resource Group, we’re promoting a culture of understanding and inclusion while also partnering with external organizations doing important work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. For example, Belong To Youth Services – whose advocacy work is creating change at the institutional and public levels in Ireland – is an integral collaborator on our employee programming and education. Local to Boston, our partnership with Pride in Our Workplace provides us with important resources to help us continue to be an inclusive and affirming workplace. 

Every person’s humanity deserves to be recognized and celebrated. Committing to and consciously fostering this kind of visibility, connection and community-building at Alkermes makes a significant difference in how we’re able to work together and strengthens the collective positive impact we can make for our employees, as well as patients and their families. 

References:

¹ https://abcnews.go.com/US/hate-crimes-lgbtq-community-rise-fbi-data/story?id=113962673 

² https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/20230613/samhsa-releases-new-data-lesbian-gay-bisexual-behavioral-health