Michael Colasso

Executive Director | Enterprise & Operational Risk

Pride Month holds a lot of meaning for Michael. It’s a time to reflect on his gratitude for his husband, dog, and accepting family and friends. It’s a time to celebrate how far the LGBTQ+ community has come toward equality. It’s a time to give back to local organizations like Chris 180 and attend events with friends and allies. However, for Michael, Pride is still a time to acknowledge the progress needed to ensure LGBTQ+ people have a seat at the table.

To that end, while Michael is grateful for all the supportive allies in his life, he knows there is still work to do in overcoming social stigmas and building a better understanding of the LGBTQ+ community with loved ones and society at large. To Michael, allyship is an important part of progress, “especially when the community has seen an increase in hateful words, sentiment, and legislation being passed towards LGBTQ+ people,” he explains.

To him, all of this starts with being comfortable in your individuality. “The first step is knowing your truth, being comfortable in your skin,” Michael says, “and realizing that it’s important that those in your life see you as YOU and support you for who you are.” He recommends finding a support network, so you don’t shy away from having difficult conversations. And acknowledging that, sometimes, fostering understanding might require more than one of those hard talks, but they’re ultimately worth it.

Michael also reminds us that allies can take several shapes in the LGBTQ+ community. “Every day, I am so thankful for the allies in my life (both people and organizations) who make gestures to show their support,” he says. “It’s amazing how far an ally making a positive statement to advocate for the community can go.”

As someone whose life purpose is to lead others with inclusivity and passion, Michael is proud to provide friendship, advice, and an open mind to anyone in the LGBTQ+ community needing guidance or support.