This Pride Month, we are pleased to highlight Alexa Stewart, the firm’s diversity, equity and inclusion and professional development coordinator. Alexa shares how she sees LGBTQIA+ rights evolving in the next decade and why she loves Pride weekends.

“A decade ago, I would have said we were headed in the right direction when it came to LGBTQIA+ rights. Gay marriage was legalized, nondiscrimination laws were being passed and transgender rights were being established. Now, it seems all it takes is making the wrong person angry on the right day to set us back a good 20 years.

“However, my generation is very headstrong. We don’t stay silent on issues where people are being wronged and we care. More and more people, groups and communities are coming together to educate the world on the importance of voting, being active within your community and using your platform and voice to speak up. So, we might be alright after all.

“You really feel that sense of community during a Pride weekend. You can hit a different city’s Pride every weekend if you want to. It’s like collecting Pride Infinity Stones because you meet so many people and make friends from all walks of life. Recently, there have been more allies coming to vibe out and support their friends and family. Seeing just having fun being themselves is what it’s all about, and everyone looks out for each other.”