Living proud every day: Jessica Lavigne on LGBTQ2S+ inclusion at work

While Pride Month shines a spotlight on the LGBTQ2S+ community each June, meaningful inclusion is a year-round effort. For Jessica Lavigne, Manager of Underwriting Assistants at Sovereign Insurance, Pride is an everyday, lived experience, so it’s crucial that her workplace is an open, welcoming and safe place. 

Jessica is involved with Sovereign’s Proud of You Employee Resource Group (ERG), which supports the LGBTQ2S+ community within the organization. We spoke with Jessica about what diversity means to her, how being a part of this community has shaped her workplace experience and why representation matters. 

What does diversity mean to you?

To me, diversity means individuals of all kinds—whether it’s sexual orientation, disability, nationality, language and more—who come together in an environment where we can share our thoughts and learn from each other. Through these exchanges, we all become more inclusive individuals. Diversity is also what brings people’s curiosity out and opens the door to a wealth of knowledge that benefits the whole organization. 

What is your experience in insurance as a member of the LGBTQ2S+ community? 

Overall, my experience in this industry has been positive. At times, some people are unsure or surprised when they hear I have a wife. But as we get to know each other, they see that I’m a regular person, just like everyone else. Professional social gatherings can sometimes feel a bit challenging, but the more we talk openly about LGBTQ2S+ topics, the more it helps normalize who we are and makes things more comfortable for everyone.  

How has this impacted your role at Sovereign? 

I’ve never felt like being who I am is a ‘bad’ or negative thing. In fact, I’ve seen how many opportunities are available to me here, and I feel like a valued and welcomed part of the larger organization. That has empowered me in my role to help create a safe and positive space for those around me. 

Why did you get involved with the Proud of You ERG?

I joined Proud of You as a way to step outside my comfort zone and connect with others at Sovereign in the LGBTQ2S+ community. I’m proud to be part of a group that helps build more awareness, knowledge and understanding across the organization. For me, it’s about supporting others and sharing experiences to create a deeper sense of community. 

Why does LGBTQ2S+ visibility and representation matter, especially in professional spaces?

Visibility helps create a culture of openness and acceptance. It creates space for people to speak openly and honestly about the struggles they face, encouraging mentorship and support within the community. But it’s much more than a conversation. Seeing LGBTQ2S+ colleagues in senior or leadership roles has a positive impact by showing that being part of this community is not a barrier to growth and success. Pride Month is a great time to celebrate progress and share those stories, but what really stands out to me is how that support continues throughout the year at Sovereign. It’s not limited to one month—it’s part of our culture every day. And that’s what makes people in this community truly feel like they belong.