EMBRACING MY IDENTITY
MEET MARK CLAYTON, ADVISOR
Mark Clayton works in Generation. This organization operates a portfolio of 2,600 megawatts of generation facilities, including hydroelectric plants, gas-fired plants, battery energy storage and solar assets. In his role as an advisor, he manages wildfire mitigation activities, including asset inspections/remediations, system hardening projects and vegetation management. He has also held positions in field service, customer service and information governance. “SCE has many different types of positions where you can develop, find your niche and grow your career and skills. Taking on new and different roles has helped me learn, network and showcase my successes,” said Clayton.
Growing up, Clayton became increasingly aware of his own gender identity. He struggled but kept his feelings to himself to avoid disappointing his family. Clayton knew people had certain expectations of him and even considered getting married to a woman and having children, but after much reflection, he chose to stay true to his feelings. Prioritizing his mental health and well-being was essential. Clayton decided not to turn away from his true self and, instead, embrace his overall identity. At 18 years old, he proudly realized and accepted his identity as a gay man. Clayton credits his father and mother as the most influential and significant people in his life. “My parents have always been my guiding light as I navigate my life. I would not be where I am today without their unconditional love and support,” he said. In his department, Clayton has a great support system. His team members reassure him and encourage him to be himself. But it was not until he joined Lighthouse, SCE’s Business Resource Group, that he felt totally at ease with his sexual orientation.
“Being newly out and trying to figure things out, I wanted more information and attended a Lighthouse meeting. After speaking to the incredible members and understanding their mission, I knew I found my support system,” said Clayton.
Before the pandemic, Clayton enjoyed morning chats and having lunch with his co-workers. During the pandemic and while observing the physical distancing guidelines, he created video conferences with different groups. This was important to him to stay in touch and nurture the bond with his colleagues. “In addition to video conferences and to focus on my mental and physical well-being, I take morning walks. This helps me maintain a positive attitude, be supportive of my partner and work effectively from home,” he said.
What can people do to increase acceptance and inclusion in the LGBTQ+ community?
I believe one of the easiest ways to increase inclusion in the LGBTQ+ community is by recognizing and knowing your biases and educating our communities to be allies. Biases or explicit biases are something we all have unconsciously but acknowledging them allows us to better address and intentionally increase inclusion.
What does Allyship mean to you and why is it important?
Allyship is important to the advancement of the LGBTQ+ community. According to Gallup, 5.6% of the American population identifies as LGBT. We need allies to support us. Being an ally does not mean you need to put on rainbows and march in the next Pride parade. Simple actions will do, like stopping your co-workers from using outdated or offensive terms or keeping yourself informed by reading LGBTQ+ articles and visiting reliable websites. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, we often forget other identities may need allies also. For example, learn more about the struggles of the transgender community and how you can provide support. We are all part of the same community and should support each other in unity.
How would you describe Edison’s support of LGBTQ+ employees?
Edison is very supportive of the LGBTQ+ employees and community. Our policies and benefits provided are above and beyond the benchmark or requirements from state laws. These also include transgender health care, bereavement leave and other benefits. I have received support directly from the most senior leaders in the company, including our CEO and president. Our Diversity & Inclusion department has focused on LGBTQ+ specific activities, and in recent years, Procurement has continued to increase opportunities for LGBTQ+-owned businesses to be eligible for diversity spending.
