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This month, we’re proud to share stories of change, resilience, and love from the LGBTQ+ community within our organization and outside of it, through local community and nonprofit partnerships. As we celebrate this historic time, we also recognize that there’s more work to be done. We’re proud to continue learning from and advocating for this community.
Introducing our LGBTQ+ business resource group (BRG)
Our BRGs were created out of employee interest, are completely employee led with executive mentorship, and bring people together from all areas of the organization. We’re excited to announce our newest BRG is comprised of members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies alike dedicated to promoting awareness, equality, and inclusion.
Sharing Pride: How one employee's support has spread
After his child came out, Wintrust’s Senior Vice President and Deputy Director of Enterprise Operations, Bill Eisenstot, went all in to show his support. This year, he brought Wintrust along for the ride to sponsor the Buffalo Grove drive-thru Pride parade.
Partner highlight: Brave Space Alliance
Brave Space Alliance is the first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQ+ center located on the South Side of Chicago, dedicated to creating and providing resources, programming, and services for LGBTQ+ individuals on the South and West sides of the city. We’re proud to partner with this crucial organization.
We're here for you at any stage of your life
Our commitment starts with our leadership
Edward J. Wehmer
FOUNDER & CEO
As Chicago’s Bank® and Wisconsin’s Bank®, it’s our responsibility to serve, and be an ally to, all communities that make up the diverse areas we call home. We work to ensure this diversity is reflected in our employees, the communities we serve, and the organizations we support. We also believe that being a true ally to the LGBTQ+ community means more than just saying we are. It means advocating for, and really learning from, members of the community within our own company and beyond, and partnering with local organizations working to make a difference. Happy Pride Month!
Melissa Donaldson
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER
A friend who knows and appreciates what I do for a living sent me a T-shirt that says: Peace. Love. Inclusion. I imagine it’s a message that can resonate with all of us. As we celebrate Pride Month, perhaps we can all try a healthier dose of peace, love, and inclusion. The origin of Pride Month dates back to the 1970s and the Stonewall riots in New York City. The LGBTQ+ community, like other marginalized groups, has fought vigorously for the right to be out and proud. There have been many celebratory milestones since Stonewall—including marriage, housing, and financial equality–but combatting unfair treatment and discrimination remains a clear and present danger. This month and beyond, dare to practice more peace, love, and inclusion. You just might learn something new.