Morgana Bailey has been hiding her true self for 16 years. In a brave talk, she utters four words that might not seem like a big deal to some, but to her have been paralyzing. Why speak up? Because she's realized that her silence has personal, professional and societal consequences. In front of an audience of her co-workers, she reflects on what it means to fear the judgment of others, and how it makes us judge ourselves.

Morgana Bailey: The danger of hiding who you are

The danger of hiding who you are

Embracing and sharing one's authentic self can challenge and change harmful stigmas, fostering inclusivity and diversity.

61% of employees alter behavior to fit in, yet 83% of LGBTQ+ workers still mask their identities, affecting well-being and inclusivity.

Concealing one's identity can shorten life expectancy by 12 years in anti-gay areas, highlighting the deadly cost of societal conformity.