Can I please get a vibe check on the following?
As we approach Pride month, my manager mentioned that in my role in marketing/communication, we should consider how best to support the month. Our company is a relatively public infrastructure provider.
I work in a small team (myself, manager and a third colleague), and on two occasions, an older colleague has expressed her disdain for Pride month, very quickly and overtly citing her religious beliefs as justification. (It’s been pretty blunt, she spends far too much time on FB surrounded by voices that support her attitude without shame) She hasn't clearly articulated her objections, I would love her to form an actually point. But she is resorting to vague and dismissive remarks that expose a deep homophobia.
While I've managed to avoid direct confrontations so far, I anticipate that I may have to respond to her comments in the future. These comments have bummed me out significantly over the weekend. I wouldn't describe myself as overly progressive, I firmly believe that religious convictions (a choice) should not infringe upon an individual's right to exist as they were born (not a choice).
My current response to her, should the topic arise, is:
“I understand that you may choose not to participate in activities promoting a more accepting society. However, if we are to discuss acceptance, I need to make my stance clear ahead of time. While you are entitled to your opinion, I've lost a friend to suicide due to such views, and many of my friends (and perhaps friends whose sexually I don’t know) have suffered because of similar beliefs. I value you as a colleague and acknowledge your many strengths. However, I need to let you know that I do not share your perspective on acceptance and won’t accept these discussions when present”