UCAR

True Colors text over a triangle shaped logo with the intersectional Pride colorsTrue Colors is a UCAR Employee Resource Group that supports, engages, and educates LGBTQ+ staff, allies, and colleagues on the issues and topics relevant to a respectful workforce. This group will also serve to support incoming and new LGBTQ+ staff.

Earth system science would not be what it is today without members of the LGBTQ+ community. As scientists, engineers, and professionals we have always existed and contributed to the important research and discoveries within our professional community. These contributions have served society and have helped advance scientific knowledge to where it is today.

Mission

True Colors exists to support LGBTQ+ staff and allies by creating a welcoming and supportive space and fostering connections across UCAR and NSF NCAR, as well as by engaging with our allies within Earth system science and our local Front Range community. Ultimately, we hope to achieve a thriving culture where LGBTQ+ staff feel supported and empowered at our organization and within the Earth System Science field. This employee resource group will also offer resources for all staff to help answer questions and guidance about the LGBTQ+ community.

Goals

True Colors aims to achieve this mission by accomplishing the following goals:

  • Provide a formal support network through monthly member meetings and social events
  • Advocate to UCAR leadership for institutional policies and initiatives to reduce organizational barriers that LGBTQ+ staff encounter
  • Host trainings, workshops, and AMAs 
  • Curate educational materials and LGBTQ+ resources available to all staff
  • Maintain an internal and external-facing web page about this employee resource group
  • Collaborate with other UCAR employee resource groups and LGBTQ+ focused organizations within Earth system science (e.g., AMS BRAID Coriolis, EPA Equality)
  • Engage with local LGBTQ+ groups (such as Rocky Mountain Equality) and participate in LGBTQ+ events in Boulder County (such as Boulder and Longmont Pridefest).

Membership

Membership is voluntary and is available for all UCAR and NSF NCAR employees (interns, term, casual, visitors, and full). We highly encourage those who identify as LGBTQ+ and allies who support people who identify as LGBTQ+.  True Colors welcomes everyone, regardless of how ‘out’ or how sure of your identity you are.