You Belong Here: Pride at TikTok!

Pride Month is celebrated every June to commemorate the history, contributions, and victories of the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or otherwise non-cisgender and/or non-heterosexual) community. There is a growing need for acceptance around the world as the community expands. At TikTok, LGBTQ+ employees and allies are encouraged to come to work as their whole selves, participate in our PRIDE Employee Resource Group (ERG), and work to foster equity and belonging for teammates and millions of users on our platform.

"When I first joined TikTok, I wanted to create a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ staff and allies," says Thomas "Tomi" Grainger, a Creator Engagement Manager based in Australia. Grainger has been the president of PRIDE @ TikTok, the Australia/New Zealand chapter of the group, for the past two years. "What I love most about being a part of the ERG is that it’s a great place to form meaningful relationships with many of the incredible people that work at TikTok."

TikTok teammates at Sydney World Pride in Australia, 2023. Photo: Tomi Grainger

For UK-based Creative Director Patrice Habib Zamy, the ERG also opened up new avenues of discussion. "Our European ERG organized a panel with Stonewall [a UK-based NGO for advancing LGBTQ+ rights] around pronouns." Normalizing sharing your personal pronouns (they/them, she/her, etc.) in the workplace is cited as part of fostering a culture of inclusion to make transgender and non-binary employees comfortable. This is a fairly new practice in many companies, and Zamy appreciated the work TikTok's ERG did to start a conversation on the concept. "Coming from a traditional French advertising agency, I felt like these talks were ahead of their time - or at least ahead of my time! That's what I like about the PRIDE ERG. It helps start a dialogue and make our workplace a safe place where we all feel welcomed."

And many do feel welcome at TikTok. Globally, PRIDE ERG chapters have over two thousand members. In addition to connecting LGBTQ+ employees from around the world for important discussions like the one Zamy attended, the ERG hosts regional events including queer-focused movie screenings, virtual fireside chats, and opportunities to support queer-owned businesses.

"Being a part of the PRIDE ERG at TikTok has been an incredibly enriching experience for me," says Janay, a Community, Programs, and Events Manager. "We collaborate on campaigns that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, raise awareness about important issues, and promote understanding and acceptance. Being a part of these initiatives has given me a platform to contribute to the ongoing fight for equality, and it fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment."

Vitally, the group also provides members with resources for mental health care, as well as opportunities to express the challenges of being LGBTQ+ in the workplace. "I wish we talked more as a community about why it’s OK to not feel OK," Grainger says, citing that LGBTQ+ individuals often experience higher rates of depression and anxiety than their straight counterparts. "Having an open and candid conversation about feelings places you on a steadfast track for success. Feeling safe in the workplace isn't a luxury, it's a necessity."

When employees feel supported and safe, amazing work can be done to make TikTok users feel the same. Maria Hutchens, who has worked at TikTok for the past two years amplifying LGBTQ+ and female creators, took the lead on TikTok's creator activation and experiences for both Manchester Pride and Brighton Pride celebrations this year. "These vibrant celebrations allowed us to engage with our community in meaningful ways, fostering inclusivity and joy."

TikTok's float at Manchester Pride in the UK, 2022. Photo: Lottie L'Amour

While significant progress has been made in society's acceptance of LGBTQ+ people over the years, especially in the workplace, members of the PRIDE ERG continue to encourage queer employees at the beginning of their careers to seek out community.

"Those who genuinely care about you will wholeheartedly embrace and support you," Janay says. "When you surround yourself with individuals who are not only passionate but also compassionate, the collective support becomes a driving force for personal and professional growth. TikTok's liberating environment allows me to leverage my strengths, skills, and experiences to make a meaningful impact in my work and with those I work with."

Mari Lima, a Community Lead in Brazil, agrees. "As a LGBTQ+ person in a leadership role, I try to lead by example, always being true to myself and reflecting it in authentic and welcoming behavior. You deserve to feel comfortable and be treated with respect. No job worth giving up on who you are."

"Find your people!" says Hutchens. "Building connections with like-minded colleagues is invaluable. These individuals will understand your experiences, provide support, and uplift you throughout your career journey. Creating this network not only fosters a sense of belonging but also opens doors to opportunities for growth and collaboration."

"Come as you are," says Lima. "Because you belong here."

A mural by local artist celebrating diveristy at the TikTok Los Angeles office. PHOTO: Ashley Adams

One of TikTok's core values is championing diversity and inclusion. We strive to create a culture of belonging, where differences are welcomed and celebrated – and we want you to be a part of it. Explore opportunities with us here.