Diversity Thought Leadership

Celebrating the PR Profession’s LGBTQ Community

As Pride Month wraps up this June, the Diversity & Inclusion Committee spoke with Del Galloway, APR, Fellow PRSA, a longtime LGBTQ thought leader.

“Let’s recognize the power of public relations to shape ideas and forge opinion,” said Galloway, vice president of communications for Wells Fargo Bank and chair of the PRSA 2020 International Conference. “PR professionals have the power to help individuals and organizations navigate a world disrupted — and at times, to help influence the disruption.”

Del Galloway

Galloway, a Gold Anvil recipient who served as president and CEO of PRSA in 2004, shared some of his thoughts about the LGBTQ community and how the work of PR professionals is crucial for promoting and preserving diversity and inclusion.

What is the current state of companies regarding LGBTQ acceptance?

There’s been great progress. I started my career in the early 1980s, at a time when diversity and inclusion weren’t discussed. I’ve been fortunate, like others, to see the evolution and the progress that’s been made.

As evidence, there is this month’s Supreme Court ruling that LGBTQ people cannot be discriminated against in employment because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. I think corporations have genuinely embraced diversity and inclusion, some better than others. Increasingly, corporate cultures encourage employees to be their authentic selves.

What challenges do communicators face during the current coronavirus pandemic?

The realities of this global pandemic create challenges in how we connect and engage. We must tap into the advancements of technology while remembering the power of the human touch.

What role do new PR professionals play in promoting diversity?

Young voices are going to move this profession forward. I think that younger people have grown up in a world where diversity and inclusion are not only discussed but highly expected. Diverse voices and diverse points of view help drive better, more informed outcomes.


Facundo Luque is a member of the PRSA Diversity & Inclusion National Committee. He is currently working in an Argentinean PR agency. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.

Photo credit: sasirin pamai

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Facundo Luque

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