presentation and conversation on LGBTQ+ history and perspective —created for the team at CVR, an Indianapolis design and marketing agency
CHALLENGE:
A mutual friend connected me to CVR’s VP of HR, who had reached out looking for ideas for an upcoming staff lunch-and-learn focused on the LGBTQ+ community. They needed someone to lead a conversation that was educational, engaging, and actionable—and all within an hour.
She shared that the company culture leaned progressive and community-centered. The team had recently painted a huge, beautiful Pride flag in their parking lot—on one of downtown Indy’s main thoroughfares. It was clear this wasn’t a performative DEI box-check. They were committed and ready to dive in.
SOLUTION:
I started by reaching out to trusted networks and resources to better understand what this kind of conversation should cover. With only one hour, I had to make tough choices—it wouldn’t be possible to cover everything: our full history from the Greeks to Glee to today, our diverse experiences, or all areas of advocacy.
So I mapped a plan. I dove into LGBTQ+ history and compiled a list of key moments that represented change. Then I stepped back to define essential terms and stats—foundational context before getting into the history. From there, I prioritized must-hear messages for allies—insights that were approachable, actionable, and likely to spark an ‘aha’ moment.
I wove in personal stories—how parts of our history have shaped my own experience, and how I’ve learned from my community to persevere, stay joyful, and build a fabulous life.
This was the structure of the conversation:
- Introductions
- Defining LGBTQ+
- Brief history & personal journey
- Diversity within the community
- Allyship & advocacy
- Q&A
Then did lots of editing still. And pulled everything together in a Canva presentation. (Canva has come a long way and is a great tool. Admittedly, I was a huge skeptic and critic during its earlier days.)
The conversation went great and spoke to lots of passionate folks afterwards with more specific questions. I am looking forward to doing this again for other groups in my community.
SELECT SLIDES FROM THE DECK
Benjamin Snyder 