#Proudtogether: ERGO shows solidarity at Pride Parade in Cologne

ERGO took part in Germany's largest Christopher Street Day in Cologne with almost 170 people – with a branded truck and a large walking group. This was ERGO's fourth participation in a row.

The Pride Parade participation was organised by the Pride@ergo network, founded in September 2020. “The impetus came from the staff – we now have almost 230 members,” says Sascha Krausen, spokesperson for the Pride@ergo network in Cologne. “From day one, we’ve received full support for our ideas and initiatives.”

Thanks to the network, all ERGO locations raise rainbow flags every year during Pride Month in June. There are now gender-neutral toilets in ERGO buildings, personal pronouns can be added to email signatures, and the company is an exhibitor at the ‘Sticks & Stones’ job fair. And, of course, it participates in the Pride Parade with its own truck and large walking group. “Our goal is to break down fears and prejudices and make a difference together. We receive a lot of support in this, including from our superiors and the Executive Board,” says Anja Schreiber, also a spokesperson for the Pride Network in Cologne and, together with Sascha Krausen and Michael Mirwald (spokesperson in Mannheim), responsible for organising the CSD participation.

Great interest in the CSD

ERGO took part in the Pride Parade in Cologne for the first time in 2022, with 47 people. “This year, there were 170 of us – interest is growing. For the first time, we also had colleagues from Austria.” Around 1.4 million visitors came to the Pride Parade in Cologne this year: “It's the largest event of its kind in Germany,” says Michael Mirwald.

There was a lot to do in the run-up to the event – from designing the truck and T-shirts for the participants to giveaways such as fans and backpacks. “In the busy phase, everyone really pitches in – even our trainees, who helped sort the T-shirts,” says Sascha Krausen.

He thinks it's great that ERGO has taken part in the Pride Parade for the fourth time in a row: “The Pride Parade is a gathering of many people from Germany and Europe. We demonstrate for the rights of our LGBT+ colleagues and show who we are. I think it's great that ERGO continues to be involved. Unfortunately, that's not a given these days.”

DEI management at ERGO

Diversity management has a long tradition at ERGO. For many years, ERGO has been working to create a working environment in which all colleagues experience appreciation and equal opportunities – regardless of age, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, worldview or social background. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are important factors for the success and growth of companies. After all, only those who feel accepted can reach their full potential. Equal opportunities, diversity and collegiality are important prerequisites for sustainable success at ERGO.

DEI Manager Bianca Boudein: "Employee networks are an integral and long-standing part of our DEI work at ERGO. They not only provide a space for exchange and support, but also promote awareness of diversity and inclusion throughout the company and initiate specific measures to further improve the working environment for everyone.‘

Sascha Krausen: “I am very proud that ERGO not only talks about being open, tolerant and diverse, but also really does something about it."