She has been supportive in the launch of the companywide Lighthouse Safe Space program and currently volunteers as a facilitator for Ally 101 training. Kristi believes that allies are critical for all minority groups. She shares, “It’s important to fight for your own rights, but those who are in positions of influence can appeal to others to move the needle forward. We all need to stand up and be allies for those that may not have a seat at the table or feel safe to express themselves fully.”

Through Kristi’s own journey, she shares that coming out was not always easy. However, leveraging company programs like the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) was critical for her coming out to her mother and siblings. From her experience, she says, “Coming out is never a single event. It takes a variety of support networks to help go through the process, including close friends, supportive managers and colleagues. And most importantly my wife, who I met at Edison and have been with for 27 years and who I, alongside members of our church, fought to have the right to marry.”

How would you describe Edison’s support of LGBTQ+ employees?

We have made great strides. The company offers healthcare benefits for same-sex spouse or registered partner, as well as having a medical plan that provides benefit coverage for those that are transitioning. Beyond the financial benefits there has also been substantial, positive cultural change. There have been multiple executives that have been out, visible and vocal including a member on the Edison International Board. Our executives clearly express and demonstrate their commitment to inclusion and respect. The company has committed resources to continue the journey of LGBTQ+ inclusion by establishing and funding a taskforce to develop and execute a strategic effort to maintain focus and continue the advancement of LGBTQ+ inclusion, including targeted recruitment of LGBTQ+ talent, ongoing awareness and education and increasing spend with LGBTQ+ suppliers. In addition, more and more individuals are bringing their whole selves to work and providing the space for others to do the same.

After coming out, was there a specific moment when have you felt like you truly belonged at work, and how did that happen?

It was during the fight for marriage equality that my vice president pulled me aside after the initial vote was lost. He made a it a point to ask me into his office and check in with me to see how I was doing. I then realized there were people in leadership at Edison that understood and could empathize with the struggle and were committed to being allies. He ultimately supported me applying for the D&I manager job and he attended our wedding. I will always cherish his support.

Each person’s journey is different, but what I do know is how liberating it is to bring your whole self to work. You don’t spend all your energy figuring out how to hide, your energy is free to be creative and engaged, you can build genuine relationships with coworkers, help raise awareness and understanding of others and ultimately, help others bring their whole selves to work too. You don’t have to do it alone. Our Business Resource Groups are a great source of networking, connection and support.