Chicago-based Harris Bank hosted its fourth annual Pride breakfast June 17 at its downtown headquarters. More than 30 people attended the early-morning event, which featured presentations from LGBT bank leaders and gay Chicagoans.
The bank celebrated its perfect rating from the Human Rights Campaign, which ranks businesses based on workplace environments and protections for LGBT employees.
"I'm proud to say that all of our policies and benefits are inclusive," said Marjorie Paddock, the bank's director of diversity.
Harris has its own affinity group for LGBT employees, called "Lion's Pride," as well as a transgender policy.
According to Paddock, the bank has sponsored the work of Equality Illinois, Center on Halsted, Howard Brown Health Center and About Face Theatre. In June, Harris volunteers served meals to elders at Center on Halsted.
Mona Noriega, Chicago's new commissioner on Human Relations, gave a keynote address during which she praised Mayor Emanuel for his LGBT advocacy and talked briefly about her new position as commissioner.
"I have to say, it's very gratifying to find people who value diversity," Noriega said of the city government. "[The mayor] values some of the same things that I value."
Kurt Dahl, who works for Harris, was presented with an "Employee of the Year" award for his efforts in making Harris a better workplace for LGBT people. According to presenters, Dahl won domestic-partner benefits for Harris employees and helped found the Lion's Pride affinity group.
Longtime community activist Angel Abcede was also honored for his work teaching high school students about HIV.
Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles performed at the event and then gave a talk on Chicago gay history as well as the history of LGBT music ensembles.
All attendees received rainbow Harris pom-poms, which bank leaders said, they will carry this year in the Pride parade on June 26.