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Transgender Awareness Week and Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) are powerful moments to reflect on the experiences of transgender and nonbinary individuals. Transgender Awareness Week, observed annually from November 13th to 19th, leads into Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20th, a day to honor the lives lost to anti-transgender violence and to reaffirm our commitment to creating safer and more inclusive spaces for all.
At Spring Health, we know that fostering safety and belonging doesn’t begin or end during these specific days. Building truly inclusive workplaces is an ongoing effort that requires allyship, action, and accountability every day of the year. This blog highlights the journeys of two incredible team members, Tanner Smith (he/him) and Gabriella Leal (she/her), who reflect on what safety, allyship, and inclusion mean to them.
Their stories remind us that inclusion isn’t just about policies or programs—it’s about creating a culture where people feel empowered to show up as their authentic selves, knowing they will be respected, valued, and supported.
Tanner’s Journey
Hello there! My name is Tanner Smith. My pronouns are he/him, and I am an Onboarding & Enablement Associate for Global Providers and Domestic (U.S.) Providers at Spring Health. I joined Spring in December 2023 after earning my degree in Psychology, focusing on mental health. As someone who has faced my own mental health challenges, I’ve always been passionate about helping others access the care they need.
What does safety and belonging at work mean to you?
“Unfortunately, for people in the LGBTQIA+ community, many of us feel like we need to hide who we are to be respected and valued in the workplace.”
I’ve faced discrimination in past workplaces for being open about being transgender. That’s why working at Spring Health is so meaningful to me. Here, I’ve found a safe and supportive environment where I can be myself without fear.
What does meaningful allyship look like to you?
“Meaningful allyship looks like peers, management, and leadership creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they truly have an open door to advocate for themselves and others.”
At Spring Health, I’ve felt completely comfortable being open about my identity. I’ve never felt different or treated differently from my cisgender coworkers since coming out, and that sense of equality is so empowering.
How has your identity contributed to your growth?
“More than my physical appearance, my transition has fostered so much confidence and mental growth. The first word that comes to mind is resilience.”
Transitioning has taught me to face challenges head-on and adapt quickly. These qualities have shaped my growth mindset and ability to empathize deeply with others. It’s also helped me bring resilience, strength, and an open mind to my work at Spring.
What advice would you give to someone navigating their identity at work?
Comfortability is key. If you’re ready to come out, know that Spring is a safe space where you’ll be supported. But if you’re not ready yet, that’s okay too—your journey is valid no matter where you are in it.
What are your hopes for the next generation of transgender and nonbinary professionals?
“I hope the next generation has no worries about coming out or feeling like they have to hide themselves.”
I want them to have the freedom to be their authentic selves without worrying about discrimination or judgment. My hope is for a future where empathy and understanding are the norm in every workplace.
Gabriella’s Journey
Hello, everyone! My name is Gabriella Leal, my pronouns are she/her, and I am a Full-Time Provider (Psychotherapist) at Spring Health. I began as a contractor in 2021 and transitioned to a full-time role in 2023. One of the reasons I made this transition was to contribute to and benefit from the resources Spring provides, such as Employee Resource Groups (ERGs).
What does safety and belonging at work mean to you?
“Safety at work means not feeling afraid or threatened—physically, mentally, or emotionally. Belonging means knowing I have importance, significance, and space in my role and workplace activities.”
At Spring Health, I’ve experienced safety and belonging through building rapport with my team and engaging in ERGs. These connections have made all the difference in feeling truly included.
What does meaningful allyship look like to you?
“Tolerance is not the goal—acceptance, inclusivity, and respect are.”
Allyship means taking action, not just expressing support. I’ve experienced meaningful allyship at Spring when sharing parts of myself, whether creating my provider profile video or speaking on a panel. The encouragement and kindness I’ve received in those moments have been transformative.
How has your identity contributed to your growth?
“Giving voice to myself has enhanced the already impactful support I provide others.”
I’ve strengthened my confidence and ability to advocate for myself by embracing self-love and compassion. These skills have allowed me to connect deeply with clients, especially those navigating their own identity journeys.
What advice would you give to someone navigating their identity at work?
Love yourself. Whether or not you’re ready to share your identity, honor your timeline. If you choose to be open, hold onto your pride, even in the face of adversity.
What are your hopes for the next generation of transgender and nonbinary professionals?
“I hope they will feel and experience the same basic human rights and respect as everyone else.”
My wish is for a future where transgender and nonbinary individuals are fully included, respected, and valued in every workplace.
Every Day is an Opportunity for Inclusion
Tanner and Gabriella’s stories are powerful reminders of what’s possible when workplaces prioritize safety, belonging, and inclusion. While Transgender Awareness Week and Transgender Day of Remembrance help bring attention to these efforts, making inclusion an ongoing practice is vital.
Every day is an opportunity to listen, learn, and create spaces where people can thrive as their authentic selves. By fostering a culture of allyship and action, we can build workplaces where everyone—regardless of identity—feels seen, respected, and empowered.
Together, let’s commit to shaping a future where inclusion isn’t just a value we talk about but a reality we create.
Inspired by our team’s experience? We’re currently hiring for several roles across our company. Apply to our open roles here.
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