Pepco and the Washington Blade announced plans for a jointly sponsored networking event for D.C.-area LGBTQ Employee Resource Groups to be held Thursday, Oct. 26, 6-8 p.m. at the Pepco Edison Place Gallery (702 8th St., N.W.).

The free event will offer a chance for local corporate ERG members to socialize and collaborate around the mission of creating safe and equitable workplaces. Federal government LGBTQ employee groups have also been invited to participate. 

“This event allows visibility and partnership among other ERG leads and organizations,” said LaToya Harris, senior administrator of fleet operations for Pepco. “Networking is a great way to exchange and align initiatives with peers. This event creates a platform for Pepco to share a space with other ERG members from the DC Metro area. We can always learn, teach, and expand through partnership with others.”

In addition to networking opportunities, the event will feature keynote remarks from Jonathan Lovitz, senior adviser and director of public affairs at the U.S. Economic Development Administration in the U.S. Department of Commerce.

“At a time when some LGBTQ corporate allies have come under attack, it’s important to stand together and reaffirm our commitment to fostering affirming workplaces,” said Blade Editor Kevin Naff. “We are grateful to Pepco for organizing the event and to all of our guests for supporting this first-of-its-kind effort.”

“I believe a robust LGBTQ+ ERG is important at Pepco because it demonstrates a real commitment of allyship and testament of true belonging for all employees,” added Miller Harris. “It is one thing to allow an ERG to exist but it is when a company truly supports a full-bodied program that LGBTQ+ employees can experience full safety and support. Being fully “out” within the workplace can prove scary to some of us. We need an ERG presence that is more than talk. Strong allies within our leadership really sends a positive message.”

Members of local ERGs are welcome to attend Thursday’s event. To RSVP, email [email protected].