What Pride Means to Me – Having the courage to be your authentic self by Jade Perkins

I am Jade Perkins, an E-Billing Analyst located in the Chicago office, and I am a member of Pryde & Co and BIPoCC.

This is my first year with the firm and coming in I was resolved to be open about my sexuality. I feel fortunate that Clyde has provided a welcoming working environment that has allowed me to feel comfortable being openly queer, which is a first-time experience for me.

Being a Black gay woman comes with many challenges that can be daunting. Often, I felt pressure to choose one identity over the other and being queer frequently came in second place. In recent years I have become firm in my belief that to live fully we must be true to ourselves, no matter how difficult it can be. I no longer shy away from talking about personal experiences, preferences or future plans.

I look forward to spending this Pride with a company that is fully committed to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community!