Ford’s diversity, equity and inclusion team, along with members of management and other employees at Van Dyke Electric Powertrain Center came together June 2 for the plant’s annual Pride flag-raising ceremony.

The ceremony marked Pride month, a time for the team to shine a light on employees who identify as belonging to the LGBTQ+ community. The ceremony was led by Andrew Snable, diversity, equity and inclusion chair, along with Lisa Cittadino, plant manager, and Chris Kipp, an hourly employee who works in the plant’s HF45 assembly area. Kipp serves on the board for Macomb County Pride.

Once again this year, the team sold Ford Pride T-shirts to raise money for Macomb County Pride. A check for $300 was presented to Kipp and the Macomb County Pride team as part of the ceremony. “I am very proud that my employer supports and recognizes Pride month and that we are making it an annual thing,” said Kipp. “I feel very happy, and it is surreal for me.”

Hayley Garnham, quality manager at the plant and chair of the Van Dyke chapter of the Women of Ford employee resource group, helped orchestrate this year’s ceremony. Garnham believes in the strength of coming together and supporting one another. “I hope all of our workers know how important they are,” she said. “I am so proud to work in a community like Van Dyke Electric Powertrain Center that celebrates diversity and inclusion.”

For Mark Wagner, an engineering specialist, this was a time for him to take part in a cause near and dear to his heart. “I have always been impressed by how our Ford family stands up for and supports worthy and just causes,” said Wagner. “This is especially true of our plant. I am proud to take part in our flag-raising event and for my daughter and I to wear our shirts to let everyone see our pride and support.”

Anyone seeking more connections is encouraged to join Ford Pride, the company’s employee resource group for its LGBTQ+ community and allies across hourly, salary, retiree, agency employees and subsidiaries.