Celebrating Pride Month

June is recognized internationally as Pride Month, where we celebrate the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and related (LGBTQ+) communities, the diversity of identities its members represent, and their fight toward equal rights around the world. As we kick off Pride Month, we had the opportunity to connect with Yassin Tajafrat, Senior External Supply Planner in Zaventem, Belgium, so he could share his story, his experiences at Zoetis, and how he contributes to Zoetis’ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion journey.

How are you involved with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts at Zoetis?

I’m involved with DEI through Zoetis’ Proud and Welcome (PAW) Colleague Resource Group, a community that aims to build an organizational culture of acceptance and inclusion, not only with the LGBTQ+ community within Zoetis, but with all Zoetis colleagues. I have been involved since the beginning, and it has been a great learning and growth experience for me. 

How has Zoetis impacted your career journey as a member of the LGBTQ+ community?

Zoetis changed my life and allowed me to be authentically who I am at work. I previously lived in a country where it was not safe to identify as LGBTQ+. In 2017, my one-year work contract in Belgium was close to expiration, and I was scared to return to my country where I was not accepted and my rights were not recognized. Thankfully, Zoetis was able to sponsor my work permit, allowing me to stay and work in Belgium. This is something I will always be grateful for. I’ve recently became a permanent resident in Belgium and am soon to become a Belgian citizen, which would not have been possible without the support of Zoetis. 

Can you share a challenge and joy from making the move?

Moving to Belgium meant leaving my old life and loved ones behind while I pursued happiness and the ability to live safely as my true self. I am finally free to be who I am, love who I want and not live in constant fear of jail time or mental/physical harassment just for loving people from my same gender. I remember experiencing tears of joy the first time I went to a local gay bar. I finally felt heard, understood, and a true sense of belonging. I was far from my original home, but felt I was truly home.

In the first two years of living here, my biggest challenge was letting go of my closeted habits. My brain has been wired for years around the fact that being gay outside of your room is dangerous. I had to work on overcoming that challenge and seek therapy, which helped to heal the trauma.

What does Pride mean to you and how are you celebrating Pride Month this year?

For me, Pride is a reminder to be unashamed of my authentic self as much as I safely can. It is also an opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering and donating to LGBTQ+ causes. I also enjoy the celebration part of it with friends and loved ones.

What advice do you have to LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies?

Educating and advocating are so important. I believe these are powerful ways to increase awareness and inclusion. I am thankful to all allies for their support and acceptance and encourage both allies and LGBTQ+ colleagues to continue educating those around them and using their voice to advocate for our community.