I joined Enterprise as a Management Trainee in 2017 after graduating with a degree in foreign languages. The first branch I worked in was at Dijon train station in Burgundy. In 2019, I joined our Remarketing Department as a Vehicle Services Assistant based at our French Headquarters in Paris.
My experience with my colleagues and managers could not have been better. All my colleagues are allies. I am fortunate to have not had a bad experience at work.
My co-workers have turned out to be close friends of mine. We meet up outside of work, they threw me a surprise party when I broke up with my partner, and I even travelled to the UK to attend my colleague’s wedding. I’m thankful to work with them, I’ve never felt like I needed to hide who I am or keep anything a secret. The Nicholas I am at work is the same Nicholas I am in private. I’ve always felt accepted and respected by my colleagues in the same way that I respect them. I’ve never woken up in the morning anxious or stressed about going to work. Quite the opposite, I feel like I am going to work to spend time with my friends.
I was proud of my colleagues when I realised that certain words or phrases, that could be perceived as offensive to the LGBTQ+ community, they have banished from their vocabulary. They’ve become more aware of the impact their words and actions can have on others.
One thing that has surprised me is how much Enterprise shows support for the LGBTQ+ community. I’m very proud to know that my company participates in Pride parades.
Enterprise is guided by its Founding Values, one of which is ‘Our doors are open’. I’ve witnessed that they do encourage an inclusive environment and that they embrace the differences that make us successful and unique.
For me, Pride is the celebration of inclusivity, acceptance and diversity. I’ve been to Pride parades around the world and it’s not just queer people that are there, there are people from every type of background, it’s a huge party where everyone is gathered to celebrate life, love and offer support.
Pride is a way to say thank you, to all those that have fought for our rights and that have changed the world for the better. It makes me realise how fortunate I am to be living in France, where we are able to speak out. I hope we continue to speak out for others that are not afforded that liberty and, although they may not hear us, we can take comfort in knowing that we are continuing to stand up for what’s right so that one day we will achieve equality.
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