Welcome to Out & Equal’s first Black LGBTQ+ Community Engagement Group (CEG) Roundtable of 2025.

CEGs offer year-round opportunities for intersectional identity groups to connect, share stories, and discuss their unique challenges and shared experiences. The Black LGBTQ+ CEG will be hosted by La’Ron Louis (he/him) from Walmart, and Kalyela Josephs (she/her) from Allstate and QueerOnPurpose.

Black LGBTQ+ people have faced unique, and near insurmountable challenges in the workplace and beyond. Challenges like the systemic barriers that can block opportunity and equal justice. Challenges to being safe in one’s own community. And despite the challenges, the risks, and the loss, trailblazers, icons, and everyday individuals have pushed forward to advance causes, communities, and movements. They have done this in the face of adversities that other people have not, do not, and will not face.

It’s why safe places like Out & Equal’s Black LGBTQ+ CEG are important. Through these vital support networks, which are centered on community and open dialogue, individuals can feel seen and validated. They can tap into and build the strength that lies within to show up authentically at work, advocate for themselves and others, and thrive.

This CEG is available for O&E partner contacts and companies and community and non-profit organizations. You must self-ID with the group.