Not Going Back: 4 LGBTQIA+ Event Leaders on Navigating 2025's Inclusion ChallengesNot Going Back: 4 LGBTQIA+ Event Leaders on Navigating 2025's Inclusion Challenges
In the first of our two-part Pride Month series, industry professionals share candid conversations about LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the business events world—from navigating political challenges to practical ways allies can step up—highlighting why supporting the community must extend far beyond June's rainbow celebrations, particularly given the current environment in the U.S.
The meetings and events industry has long fostered connection, community, and culture. In the first of our two-part series in recognition of Pride Month, we asked professionals across industry sectors to share their perspectives on the state of inclusivity and our shared responsibility to enact meaningful change. Their insights reinforce the need for year-round action. Part 2 of our series will publish the week of June 23, 2025.
Derrick Johnson, Director, Event Programming, SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management)
How will the Trump administration’s rollback of LGBTQIA+ protections and DEI impact events?
I’m watching it closely and with concern. SHRM events aim to reflect the full spectrum of human experience at work, and any policies that threaten LGBTQIA+ protections or undercut DEI challenge that mission. We’ll keep showing up for our communities.
How can the meetings industry better support LGBTQIA+ professionals and attendees?
Listen to us year-round—not just during Pride Month or on diversity panels. There's still too much box-checking and not enough meaningful equity-building. We need systems that make queer professionals feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
How can allies in the industry better advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion?
Speak up when it's inconvenient. Challenge vendor contracts that fail on inclusivity. Recommend queer speakers who haven't been given the mic yet. Allyship isn't a sticker you wear in June; it's what you do when no one’s looking and the stakes are real.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I’m a weekend DJ for weddings, events, parties, bars, and nonprofit galas.
Beth Surmont, Vice President, Event Strategy & Design, 360 Live Media
How will the Trump administration’s rollback of LGBTQIA+ protections and DEI impact events?
Sadly, I think that they are trying to force us back into the closet. We’ve seen a concentrated effort to erase LGBTQIA+ people and other minority groups. This is causing anxiety around things like the titles of sessions, safety when traveling to certain destinations, and even the cancellation of some events. Taking us off websites and removing funding reminds us of how important it is to be visible and open.
How can allies in the industry better advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion?
One of the best things you can do is join the LGBT Meeting Professionals Association. In a time when outside forces are trying to erase us, we want to grow our numbers. If you don’t identify as LGBQIA+, you can join as an ally. We have resources for planners, a monthly newsletter, and gatherings at all of the major industry events.
How will you celebrate Pride Month?
I’m old enough to remember when Pride was a protest, not a party. This month, I’m embracing those roots—staying visible, supporting organizations like LGBT MPA and the Human Rights Campaign that fight to keep us safe, and standing up for the people in my community who need a little extra help and love.
David Kliman, CMM Co-Founder, Event Leaders Exchange, President, The Kliman Group
How will the Trump administration’s rollback of LGBTQIA+ protections and DEI impact events?
These measures will backfire, strengthening the resolve of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to demand equal protections. Policies that weaken LGBTQIA+ rights will create chaos and undermine this administration’s agenda. Every American family, company and community includes LGBTQIA+ voices. Ultimately, fairness will prevail.
How can the meetings industry better support LGBTQIA+ professionals and attendees?
Stand firm and maintain all DEI efforts. Marriott CEO Anthony Capuano set an example by publicly reinforcing his company’s commitment to inclusion, despite political pressure. The meetings industry must follow suit, ensuring that diversity and belonging remain central to its values.
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I've been with my husband since college. It was love at first sight: We have lived together since the day we met 46 years ago.
Gary Murakami, CMP, DES, Board chair, LGBT Meeting Professionals Association, Vice President of Global Sales & Industry Relations, Teneo Hospitality Group
How will the Trump administration’s rollback of LGBTQIA+ protections and DEI impact events?
These actions embolden discrimination and disrupt efforts to build inclusive cultures. Event organizers and industry partners must remain vigilant, ensuring the safety, acceptance, and visibility of LGBTQIA+ professionals and attendees. Where policies fall short, the industry must act—adopting inclusive practices, making intentional sourcing decisions, and refusing to normalize exclusion.
How can the meetings industry better support LGBTQIA+ professionals and attendees?
Inclusion must be embraced as a global business strategy—woven into sourcing, attendee experiences, and event design. Industry leaders must move from intent to action, dismantling barriers and creating events that unapologetically protect and uplift the LGBTQIA+ community and the broader global audience.
How can allies in the industry better advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion?
Allyship is a responsibility, not a label. Those in leadership and decision-making roles must amplify LGBTQIA+ voices, especially when they’re not in the room. That requires courage—challenging exclusion, advocating for equitable representation, and embedding inclusion across events, partnerships, and business culture.
