“PRIDE+ shows how powerful connection can be”
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
For more than thirty years, Rick Ramdas has seen how LGBTIQ+ inclusion at ABN AMRO has developed. Ahead of Pride Amsterdam, we spoke with him about these changes. “Younger colleagues are often very open about who they are. I love seeing that.”
Rick, you have worked here since 1990. What did LGBTIQ+ inclusion look like at that time?
“When I started, it was not common to be open about your sexual orientation at work. People simply did not talk about it. Now things are very different. Colleagues openly talk about their lives and who they are. I also feel free to show who I am, with my humour and my personality. That shows how much progress we have made together.”
There were already initiatives back then, though. What were they like?
“That’s right. In the mid-1990s, the Happy Bankers Gathering started for gay and lesbian colleagues. It was mainly informal in nature. Later, the Gay Bankers Network was created.”
Today, the network is called PRIDE+. How did you become involved?
“A colleague invited me to an event. I immediately felt welcome, and the atmosphere was very open. PRIDE+ has helped me listen more closely to other people’s experiences and become more aware of what is happening within the organisation. The network brings people together, opens up conversations on important topics and helps colleagues get to know each other better. I find that very valuable.”
Why is visibility so important?
“Because change starts when people dare to show who they are. When colleagues are open about themselves, others often feel freer to do the same. That creates more understanding and connection. I always try to stay close to who I am, with a bit of humour and courage. Sometimes I ask questions that help people look at something in a different way. Not because I want to be right, but because I want to start a conversation. Inclusion is not only about policy, it is mainly about how colleagues treat each other.”
You have seen colleagues from several generations join the bank. Do you notice differences?
“Absolutely. Younger colleagues are often very open about who they are. I love seeing that. At the same time, I also enjoy hearing stories from people in my own generation. They often grew up in a different time and sometimes faced different obstacles. Those stories matter. When different generations talk to each other, we can learn from one another.”
What do you hope the future will bring?
“I hope we continue to connect with one another and stay curious about each other’s stories. Inclusion often lives in small things: a conversation, an invitation, a genuine question or a warm welcome. PRIDE+ shows how powerful connection can be. Together, we make sure everyone feels welcome and free to be who they are.”
At ABN AMRO, we believe that our differences make us stronger. That is why we work every day to create an inclusive working environment where everyone feels welcome, seen and valued. For us, Pride is not only a moment to be visible, but also a confirmation of what we stand for as a bank: an employer and a bank for everyone.