As we embrace the opportunities of 2025, we take a moment to celebrate the impact of OutLoud@CRA over the past year—highlighting the progress we’ve made, the connections we’ve built, and the strides we’ve taken to foster a workplace where all LGBTQ+ team members and allies feel seen, supported, and valued.
OutLoud@CRA is an employee resource group (ERG) dedicated to fostering connection, collaboration, and visibility for all team members including LGBTQ+ team members and allies. More than just raising awareness, OutLoud@CRA cultivates a sense of community by providing opportunities for open dialogue, shared learning, and authentic self-expression. Through engaging initiatives and meaningful discussions, the group strengthens relationships across the firm and contributes to a workplace culture where team members can thrive.
In 2024, OutLoud@CRA expanded its reach, deepened its impact, and reinforced its mission of championing representation and belonging. Below are some highlights from this past year:
Welcoming New Leadership
As OutLoud@CRA continues to grow, new leadership brings fresh energy and vision to our mission. In 2024, we welcomed a dynamic team committed to fostering inclusivity, strengthening community, and advocating for LGBTQ+ representation within CRA:
– Spencer Andersen – Co-Chair (U.S.)
– Devin Gary – Co-Chair (U.S.)
– Ryan Lawlor – Co-Chair (E.U.)
– Robert Broadnax – Executive Sponsor
Celebrating Pride, Advocacy & Community
OutLoud@CRA is committed to creating spaces where LGBTQ+ team members and allies can connect, learn, and celebrate their identities. Throughout the year, we hosted engaging events and impactful initiatives that sparked important conversations, encouraged self-expression, and strengthened our sense of community.
– PFLAG Workshop & Training Series
In partnership with PFLAG, the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals and their loved ones, OutLoud@CRA hosted a three-part workshop and virtual training series focused on allyship, workplace inclusion, and advocacy. These sessions provided practical tools and valuable insights on creating a more inclusive and supportive environment.
– Pride Month Happy Hour & Virtual Bingo
To celebrate Pride Month, OutLoud@CRA brought colleagues together for a firmwide happy hour and a lively virtual bingo event. This celebration highlighted the importance of joy, visibility, and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community.
– International Day Against Homophobia Fundraiser
On May 17, OutLoud@CRA marked the International Day Against Homophobia with a breakfast fundraiser in London, supporting AKT Charity, an organization dedicated to aiding LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness or hardship.
– National Coming Out Day Celebration
In the UK, OutLoud@CRA honored National Coming Out Day with a special event fostering conversations on visibility, identity, and the power of storytelling in creating safe and affirming spaces.
– Fireside Chat with Jim Fielding
OutLoud@CRA hosted a fireside chat featuring Jim Fielding, LGBTQ+ advocate and author. This powerful conversation provided insights into leadership, resilience, and embracing one’s authentic self in the workplace.
Looking Ahead: 2025 & Beyond
As we reflect on a year of advocacy, celebration, and progress, we step into 2025 with renewed energy and commitment to strengthening our community and ensuring that LGBTQ+ team members and allies continue to feel valued and supported at CRA.
OutLoud@CRA will continue to celebrate LGBTQ+ team members and allies, foster belonging, and create meaningful opportunities for connection, dialogue, and support.
To everyone who participated in and supported OutLoud@CRA this year—thank you. Your passion, commitment, and allyship fuel the success of this community.
We look forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead!