Proud to Represent Pride at JCPenney

Today marks the 52nd anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan – a key event in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) rights movement. The following year, the very first Pride march was held in New York City on June 28, 1970. JCPenney stands with our LGBTQ+ associates and customers as the journey to equality continues.

On this historic anniversary, we recognize Pride Month and JCPenney’s LGBTQ+ associates and allies living by our commitment to inclusion and diversity. Hear the inspirational stories and unique experiences of four associates featured in our ‘People with Pride’ series published throughout Pride Month this June.

People with Pride

Meet General Manager Salem Boohaker who works in our Metairie, Louisiana store and is the co-chair of JCPenney’s PRIDE Business Resource Team (BRT). As a leader of PRIDE, he champions a network of engaged LGBTQ+ associates and allies that focus on making JCPenney an inclusive workplace. See how Salem is living with Pride at JCPenney.

Introducing General Manager Brandi Gary from our Richmond, Kentucky, store who is proud to be an ally for the LGBTQ+ community. She brings her passion to work every day to create an inclusive work environment for our associates and shopping experience for our customers. Hear about her reflections about acceptance and encouragement.

Hear more from Caitlyn Trabucco, a Sephora inside JCPenney associate who works in our Middletown, New York store. Coming out is not easy; but having the support from her coworkers made her journey less scary. She is proud to work for a company that believes in inclusion and diversity. Take a look at how Caitlyn shared her story in her work environment.

Meet JCPenney Salon Stylist Sandy Flor Viruel who works in our Staten Island, New York store. As a transgender woman, she has enjoyed working for a company that gives her equal opportunities as a stylist. Sandy has volunteered for many years with LGBTQ+ nonprofits. She says to “just be who you are, be secure, love yourself, and be happy.”

JCPenney thanks associates across the globe who foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable bringing their whole self to work each and every day.