By Alberto Camargo, Diversity Program Officer
In 2014, Argonne’s attendance at the “Out to Innovate” conference launched the discussions that initiated Spectrum, a group that recognizes and supports Argonne’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Asexual, Allied and other related identities (LGBTQA+) employees and community.
Spectrum is an employee resource group (ERG) led by Argonne employees who are specifically dedicated to building awareness of, and providing resources to, Argonne’s LGBTQA+ community in support of Argonne’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives and the Argonne Next pillar of Community.
Spectrum has no membership fees and is open to the participation of all employees and retirees of Argonne, the U.S. Department of Energy, The University of Chicago, Argonne Credit Union and all persons associated with or assigned to the work of the laboratory.
Spectrum’s goals include providing leadership and resources at Argonne that promote understanding, acceptance and inclusion. The group also provides employees with cultural awareness, educational and networking opportunities, promotes a welcoming and inclusive workplace environment, and participates in outreach efforts.
Some of Spectrum’s plans for 2016 include representation on the Laboratory Director’s Diversity and Inclusion Council, hosting activities and events that promote raising awareness and networking of Argonne’s LGBTQA+ community, engaging new employees, and keeping its membership updated on LGBTQA+ events of interest in the Chicago area.
To join, get involved, or learn more about Spectrum, email Spectrum-board@anl.gov, join the LGBTQA email discussion forum and read the Spectrum blog.
Join Spectrum at its next meeting on Wednesday, April 13, at 11:45 a.m. in the Building 213 Cafeteria Conference Room.