Embracing Pride: Journeys of Connection and Empowerment
Two members of the Pride Employee Resource Group (ERG) share their experiences and thoughts on finding community, helping others, and creating safe spaces inside and out of Discover.
Name: Jasmine
Pronouns: she/her
Location: Chicago, IL
Title: Principal Communications Strategy & Events
Cultivating meaningful relationships and giving back in our communities
Joining Pride provided me with a unique opportunity to cultivate a sense of community. I’ve been able to connect with individuals who share similar experiences and backgrounds that I don’t often encounter in my day-to-day interactions. Through the ERG, I’ve also formed meaningful relationships and found support which have made a positive impact on my personal and professional #LifeAtDiscover.
Pride cohosted a panel discussion with BOLD (Black Organizational Leadership Development ERG), and I remember the event vividly as it was the first time I’d ever seen a company give people at the intersection of Blackness and queerness a platform to share more about their experiences. I felt so seen and heard. The stories also provided me with new insight on just how similar and different we all are even when sharing identities.
I am passionate about community involvement through 1:1 support, volunteerism, and activism. At Discover, I support my peers and team with engagements and promote networking to find available solutions and to build partnerships across the organization. Every project is a new opportunity to grow professionally. Outside of the workplace, I love finding impactful, local queer and Black NGOs (non-governmental organizations) in our communities where I can volunteer in my free time. It is so important to give back and create more equitable experiences.
Name: Ashley
Pronouns: she/her
Location: Chicago, IL
Title: Principal Risk Process Improvement
Being a member of the Pride ERG has enriched my #LifeAtDiscover by expanding my community. Since moving to Chicago a little over two years ago, being part of Pride helped me meet people, explore new places, and navigate life in my new home.
Connecting with other professionals in the LGBTQ+ space gives me stronger purpose. Attending the Out & Equal conference last year was a truly inspiring experience. Surrounded by other companies who also value Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, I felt a profound sense of belonging. Listening to our queer leaders share their unique journeys illuminated the possibilities for my own future. This conference not only broadened my perspective, but also fueled my passion for driving meaningful change within Discover.
The LGBTQ+ community continues to face discriminatory policies threatening civil rights, education, and healthcare—especially for trans and non-binary individuals. I create a safe, welcoming space for my peers at work and in my community to be their authentic selves. My support involves listening, educating, advocating, and voting. I listen to their stories and advocate for them in their absence. I encourage everyone to find and use their voice.
I am always passionate about people! I love helping others, whether it’s through volunteering at local events, participating in ERG activities to foster a sense of belonging, or driving initiatives to create meaningful change. I believe in the power of collective effort and strive to make a positive impact in every intention for all.
To learn more about our Employee Resource groups and our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, click here. Search for jobs and learn more about #LifeAtDiscover here.