As summer comes to an end, let’s take a closer look at the nuances of 2019’s pride month. This year, a global conversation around pride-washing or rainbow washing — the practice of businesses making nods to LGBTQIA+ inclusion through marketing efforts or rainbow-infused temporary products but not through actions and policies — also took place.

Most people, according to a new survey featured in HR Dive, have the greatest sense of belonging in their own homes. That may not be surprising news, but what is interesting is that one third of respondents felt the greatest sense of belonging in their workplace. A significant percentage, 40 percent, attribute that feeling to actions their colleagues and managers take to check in on them, both personally and professionally. Belonging improves employee retention and productivity, certainly, but it requires acknowledgement of diversity and efforts at inclusion.

As HR Technologist reported recently, current best-in-class companies know that the rising talent pool is composed of millennials, people of color, and women, and so they are already working in concrete ways to leverage this shifting workforce. One crucial factor is making sure that this work is centered: an integral and shared component of marketing, sales, and operations, as opposed to an outsourced diversity group.

While there’s plenty of talk about work/life balance, many employees want to feel human while at work, too. Being able to bring their whole selves, according to “3 Ways to Create a More Human Workplace,” from Workforce, is an essential piece of a welcoming, inclusive workplace environment.