Inclusion, Diversity, Equity,
and Accessibility (IDEA)
Through this initiative, we are taking a critical look at how intersectional experiences within interrelated systems of discrimination, stigma, and marginalization impact overall well-being. Through this commitment to continually learn more, we are better able and informed to support, educate, and empower the LGBTQ+ community in Colorado. As an organization, we are daily acknowledging and appreciating intersectionality and fundamentally reconstructing the ways in which our organization functions. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) are being operationalized at the core of our culture, making them more than just ideas.
"IDEA should be at the heart of our work because the mental health of individuals is intertwined with their experiences of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. By centering IDEA, we acknowledge and honor the unique identities and experiences of each individual, creating a safe and affirming space where everyone can receive the support and resources they need to thrive." Rich Bailey (he/him), Board Co-Chair
Our IDEA Partners
MiDian Holmes
(she/her)
MiDian Holmes grew up in Denver, Colorado, and recalls stories and
experiences in her childhood filled with racial tensions. Some events werein the national spotlight and others were casual occurrences in herclassroom or neighborhood. Stories centered around Rodney King,
Latasha Harlins, Amadou Diallo, and the verdict of O.J. Simpson were just a few triggering reminders during MiDian’s formative years that the
country was divided, despite being taught that America was a place of
freedom and acceptance. While she was able to compartmentalize these
national headlines, MiDian was no stranger to racism from her peers,
teachers, and sadly enough, her mentors. As the Owner/Founder of 8PM Consulting for Humanity, MiDian brings her life experience, a relentless pursuit of racial justice, and her expertise as a community leader, corporate executive, and social justice advocate a new mission. MiDian’s work is centered on three main pillars, each addressing a community and providing them with opportunities to learn, reflect, grow, and change our society. MiDian teaches and lives her commitment to this work. While society continues to produce countless individuals and families impacted by the plague of racism and injustice, MiDian recognizes that our culture is suffering. She seeks to educate, enlighten, and empower people through personal connection and reflection, as she has done throughout her own life. MiDian is sought out and leveraged by the community at large and is committed to holding the hands and hearts of others to join her on the journey to Get Uncomfortable, Stay Uncomfortable, and Transform our Comfort!
Syah B. Taylor
(she/they)
Syah is a creative strategist, able to design and facilitate transformative experiences that expand one’s awareness of themselves, other cultures, and oppressive systems. Their goal is to shift our standards for workplace culture to be more sustainable and empowering for marginalized communities. A seasoned social justice educator & dialogue facilitator, Syah is able to use their counseling psychology background to unveil hard truths in intentional ways that can be received, processed, and acted upon.