28th February 2024 @ 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
You are invited to the 2024 Q1 meeting of the Global Leaders Council (GLC)
The GLC is an online quarterly forum in which Workplace Pride members can have a high-level discussion on strategic topics important to LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace. GLC participants should be decision-makers or major influencers within their own organisations.
An agenda will be available closer to the meeting.
Amsterdam, January 30, 2024 – The Workplace Pride Foundation is pleased to share the success of the Annual Members Meeting and New Year’s Reception, which took place on Thursday, January 25th, 2024, at the EDGE Amsterdam West. The event was hosted by Workplace Pride Partner APG and Member Intertrust Group, a CSC Company, at their EDGE West location in Amsterdam. Exclusive to Workplace Pride members, the meeting provided a comprehensive overview of the Foundation’s achievements in 2023 and outlined exciting plans for the upcoming year, 2024.
The Annual Members Meeting served as a dynamic platform for members to engage in a vibrant exchange, commemorating the Foundation’s successes over the past year. The meeting showcased a detailed overview of initiatives, accomplishments, and impactful work carried out in 2023. Additionally, the Foundation unveiled ambitious plans and projects scheduled for 2024, fostering a sense of shared commitment among attendees.
David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride Foundation, expressed gratitude for the active participation:
“A heartfelt thank you to APG and CSC-Intertrust for graciously hosting our Annual Members Meeting and New Year’s reception in their unique offices! It was a delight to present the Foundation to both our longstanding and new members, experiencing that shared sense of mission we all hold dear. The future, where LGBTIQ+ individuals can authentically be themselves at work, is a collective effort, and we are much stronger together.”
November 2023
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Trans+@Workplace Pride and Tech@Workplace Pride recently collaborated to host a thought-provoking event at Workplace Pride Member Google Nederland, focusing on the human side of artificial intelligence (AI) during Transgender Awareness Week.
Transgender Awareness Week, observed from November 13 to November 19, aims to enhance the visibility of transgender individuals and raise awareness about the challenges faced by this community. To contribute to this cause, Trans+@Workplace Pride and Tech@Workplace Pride organised a compelling session on the impact of AI on marginalised groups, with a special focus on the transgender community.
The event, held on November 16, brought together approximately 70 individuals in person and 95 online, eager to delve into the complexities of AI and its intersection with social issues. The theme, “The Human Side of AI,” featured distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and insights.
Key Speakers and Topics:
Jasmijn (she/they) – Senior Research Scientist, Google DeepMind
Jasmijn (she/they), holds a PhD and MSc in AI from the University of Amsterdam, and a BSc in AI with a linguistics minor from Utrecht University. With expertise in AI and natural language processing, Jasmijn has contributed to various areas, such as automatic translation (e.g., Joey NMT) and explainability (e.g., the Language Interpretability Tool). Jasmijn led a discussion on fostering inclusivity and gender fairness in AI, especially in language technology.
Danny Belitz (he/him) – Senior Data Scientist and Senior Consultant for Responsible AI, IBM
As the second speaker, Danny Belitz (he/him) serves as an active advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In his role as a Senior Data Scientist and Senior Consultant for Advanced Analytics & Responsible AI at IBM, Danny shared valuable insights during the event. He emphasised a human-centred approach in technological solutions by integrating Responsible AI at the core and applying best practices from the design phase onward. With expertise in conversational design and data storytelling, Danny contributes to making AI more trustworthy, focusing on enhanced explainability, transparency, and equity.
Marion Mulder (she/her) – FutureMaker and Digital Strategist, MuldiMedia
Marion Mulder (she/her), discussed the concept of simplifying and improving technologies for a more enjoyable and human-focused experience. Actively engaged in shaping a world aligned with her vision, Marion advocates for “Making Digital Technology Work For You.” Holding board positions at diversity organisations, including the Gaykrant and Workplace Pride (co-founder), Marion serves as a speaker on topics like GenderFreeTech, InclusiveTech, and AI ethics. In her daily work across diverse digital roles and projects, she finds joy in assisting individuals and organisations in embracing and leveraging digital technology.
Event Highlights:
The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, addressing questions about the challenges and dangers posed by AI in our daily lives. A festive buffet provided by Google Netherlands and the Trans+ and Tech@Workplace Pride Community allowed participants to network and reflect on the insightful discussions.
Trans+@Workplace Pride and Tech@Workplace Pride extend their gratitude to the speakers, participants, and Google Netherlands for their support in making this event a success.
28th February 2024 @ 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Young@WorkplacePride extends a warm invitation to participants of the Mentorship Program and members of Workplace Pride to register for an impactful training session at Erasmus University Rotterdam on Thursday, 18th January. Join us for an enriching experience with speakers Prof. Dr. Annelien Bredenoord and Nori Spauwen, offering valuable insights into the realm of Corporate Activism.
This training session is open to participants enrolled in the mentorship program and Workplace Pride members alike. We encourage you to extend this invitation to your colleagues, and kindly request you and your colleague(s) to register using the button below.
We cordially invite all attendees to participate in the training, which will also be accessible via Zoom. The link for the online session will be shared with you at a later date. To assist us in managing capacity effectively, we kindly request you to complete the registration form indicating your participation preferences.
The Board of Young@Workplace Pride looks forward to your active involvement.
Event Schedule:
Speakers:
Prof. Dr. Annelien Bredenoord Prof. Dr. Annelien Bredenoord serves as the Rector Magnificus of Erasmus University Rotterdam. Her responsibilities encompass education, research, and impact, with a focus on academic staff, students, and science education. Additionally, she holds the position of a professor, a member of the Dutch Senate, and is engaged at the intersection of healthcare, technology, innovation, ethics, and politics.
Nori Spauwen Nori Spauwen is a distinguished activist, philosopher, and former diplomat. With a background in Global Justice from Yale, Nori has championed LGBTI human rights at the UN, served as editor-in-chief of Expreszo (the Dutch LGBTI youth magazine), and conducted training for LGBTI activists globally. In 2021, she founded the Embassy of Change, guiding idealists to become effective and healthy change-makers. Nori is also a columnist for the Financieele Dagblad and is currently working on a book on activism.
How to Reach the Venue:
The training will be hosted at Erasmus University Rotterdam, Woudestein Campus (Burgemeester Oudlaan 50, Rotterdam). Navigate to Theil Building (C), Room C2-1 (second floor, first room). For a campus map, please click here.
Erasmus University is conveniently accessible by metro lines A, B, and C (exit at Kralingse Zoom), tram lines 21 and 24 (exit at Oude Plantage), and tram line 7 (exit at Erasmus Universiteit). Parking on campus is also available at a rate of €1.00 per twenty minutes, with a maximum day fee of €10.00.
We look forward to your participation in this insightful training session.
Amsterdam 1st, 2023
Country General Manager IBM Johan Heij, Kyra Keybets, Director of Staff at the Social and Economic Council, and David Pollard Executive Director Workplace Pride
Prominent Workplace Pride members, including ING, Shell, Unilever, KLM, Booking, and Rijksoverheid, have joined the #WorkingPositively initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering diverse and supportive workplaces. This pledge underscores Workplace Pride’s ongoing efforts to champion inclusivity, emphasising the importance of prioritising the health, dignity, and rights of every individual in the workforce.
The initiative, part of the international Working Positively movement, aims to create a stigma-free, respectful, safe, and inclusive work environment for people with HIV and other chronic conditions. On World AIDS Day, Workplace Pride members proudly shared their commitment, marking the 35th commemoration of the day with the theme “Remember and Commit.”
David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, signed the #WorkingPositively declaration on behalf of Workplace Pride Foundation, emphasising the importance of a more inclusive working environment.
Companies are encouraged to join #WorkingPositively Netherlands and sign the declaration to contribute to a stigma-free work environment for individuals living with HIV and other chronic conditions. More information can be found https://www.workingpositively.hiv/
#WorkplacePride #WorldAidsDay #WorkingPositively #InclusiveIBM #Aids #Inclusion
GALA, ING’s Pioneering LGBTIQ+ Employee Network, Marks Two Decades of Impactful Advocacy
November 16, Amsterdam: In a vibrant and heartwarming celebration, ING’s Rainbow Lions, formerly known as GALA (Gay and Lesbian Association), commemorated two decades of relentless dedication to LGBTIQ+ empowerment and workplace inclusion. The event united founders, including David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, along with chairs and supporters from both the past and present. Together, they reflected on the remarkable journey of being ‘out’ in the workplace and envisioned the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Reflecting on Progress
The event was a poignant moment to reflect on the early challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals in the workplace and the incredible strides made over the past 20 years. The founders and chairs shared anecdotes of the network’s inception and the hurdles overcome to establish one of Europe’s first LGBTIQ+ employee networks. From those initial challenges to becoming an influential force advocating diversity, inclusion, and belonging, the Rainbow Lions have played a pivotal role in shaping a more tolerant and accepting work environment, both inside and outside of ING.
ING Group Executive Board’s Endorsement
Andrew Bester, Head of Wholesale Banking and sponsor and supporter from the ING Group Executive Board underscored the enduring significance of the LGBTIQ+ community within ING, emphasising its role as a vital and integral part of the organisation. He acknowledged the strides made and reaffirmed the commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
Expanding Horizons
From its humble beginnings, the Rainbow Lions have expanded their influence across various ING countries, becoming a symbol of diversity and progress. The network’s commitment to fostering an environment where individuals can be their authentic selves has resonated, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the organisation.
Looking Forward
As the Rainbow Lions celebrate two decades of progress, the event also served as a platform to discuss the future challenges that the LGBTIQ+ community still faces. Participants engaged in conversations about the ongoing work needed to address these challenges and continue the journey towards true equality.
Conclusion
The 20th-anniversary celebration of ING’s Rainbow Lions was a testament to the power of advocacy, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the LGBTQI+ community. Cheers resonated throughout the event, echoing the collective pride in the progress made and the determination to continue the journey towards a more inclusive and accepting future. 🌈🦁🎉
David Pollard, Marion Mulder, Martha McDevitt-Pugh, Dimitri Elve, Ezra Clarke, Francesco D’Argento, Kim L.
#INGRainbowLions #20YearsStrong #RainbowLions20 #INGGala #WorkplacePride #DiversityandInclusion
Workplace Pride Partners with Dutch Embassy in Rwanda and Hivos to Drive Progress
This week, as part of the Free to Be Me Program, Workplace Pride, in collaboration with the Dutch Embassy in Rwanda and Hivos, convened the Kigali Socio-Economic Roundtable Discussion. This significant event brought together over 30 community members, diplomatic missions, and business representatives with the aim of raising awareness regarding socio-economic inclusion for the LGBTIQ+ community, initiating crucial conversations, and fostering commitment for future dialogues.
“Economic development programs are not reaching LGBTIQ+ people adequately or equitably. In our workplaces, creating an environment where everyone can be themselves is essential and should be the standard for modern businesses.”
Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman
During the roundtable held at the residence of the Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman, she emphasised the imperative need for an environment in workplaces where everyone can authentically be themselves, asserting that this should be the benchmark for modern businesses. Ambassador Wiegman stated, “Economic development programs must adequately and equitably encompass the LGBTIQ+ community.”
Key insights from the discussions include:
Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman with Levis Maina, Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at PATH
As Workplace Pride, we take immense pride in the resilience demonstrated by the Rwandan LGBTIQ+ community and remain steadfast in our commitment to drive inclusion, paving the way for socio-economic development opportunities for the LGBTIQ+ community both locally, in Africa, and across Asia.
#Hivos, #EmbassyoftheKingdomoftheNetherlandsinRwanda, #IrisVanNoord, #MarloesVanFulpen, #LevisNderitu, #AlvinAmbunya, #GrahamSparks, #AnneJellema, #SaidaAli
Trans+@Workplace Pride & Tech@Workplace Pride kindly invite you to join us at Google Nederland for an inspiring session about the human side of AI. Location: Google Nederland, Claude Debussylaan 34, 8th floor, 1082 MD Amsterdam
Online location: https://www.youtube.com/@Workplace-Pride/streams
Date: 16 November 2023
Time: 16:00 -19:00 – including drinks & bites (Live stream from 16.00 – 17.30)
The human side of AI
Transgender Awareness week, observed November 13 to November 19, is coming up! It is a week aimed at improving the visibility of transgender people and building awareness for the issues this community faces.
To help this cause, trans+@WP worked together with tech@WP to organize an event to discuss the impact artificial intelligence (AI) has on marginalized groups, with special attention to the transgender community.
We all hear stories about the latest technologies and their shortcomings, but what goes on behind the scenes? Join us to hear from Dr Jasmijn Bastings (Senior Research Scientist, Google DeepMind), Danny Belitz (Senior Data Scientist and Senior Consultant for Responsible AI, IBM), and Marion Mulder (FutureMaker and Digital Strategist, MuldiMedia).
Jasmijn will talk about bias in AI and how we can make AI more inclusive, Danny about the key pillars of responsible AI and the importance of AI Governance, and finally Marion will zoom out and talk about what world we want to live in with AI.
There will be ample time to ask burning questions during the panel session hosted by trans+@WP lead Sophie Jeckmans.
Program:
15:30 Doors open
16:00-16:05 Welcome by host Sophie Jeckmans
16:05-16:25 Jasmijn Bastings
16:25-16:45 Danny Belitz
16:45-17:00 Marion Mulder
17:00-17:30 Panel session & Q&A
17:30-19:00 Drinks and food
Travel advice from Google
Please note for those joining in person, Google is strongly suggesting to come by public transport. The offices are just a short 5 min walk away from Amsterdam Zuid. While there are public parking facilities in the neighbourhood, it’s best to make a reservation. There are limited parking spaces available for disabled people at the Google offices themselves.
28th February 2024 @ 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
LGBTIQ+ inclusion in India is an evolution in the making and nowhere is that more true than in the workplace. To take into account this dynamic and the activities of many of our members in the country, Workplace Pride will be organising our 2nd conference entitled “Demystifying LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion in India” on March 21st of 2024 in Bengaluru. We will be working with Shell, as host of the event and a leading member of the Foundation, who, like many other organisations are striving to create workplaces in India where all employees can truly be themselves, including those from the LGBTIQ+ community.
CONFERENCE OVERVIEW
Title: Demystifying LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion in India
Date: Thursday, March 21, 2024
Location: Taj Hotel, MG Road, Bengaluru
Host: Shell
Co-Hosts: Unilever, The Kingdom of the Netherlands, British Deputy High Commission Bangalore, Australian Consulate General Bengaluru
Supporters: RELX, Randstad, Accenture, Solidarity Foundation, Pride Circle
Host Organisation:
As host of the event and a leading member of the Workplace Pride, Shell strives to create workplaces in India where all employees can truly be themselves, including those from the LGBTIQ+ community.
Speakers and sessions at the conference will address topics such as:
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to speak with your peers about all aspects of LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion and to determine the way forward for our movement collectively.
LGBTIQ+ inclusion in India is an evolution in the making and nowhere is that more true than in the workplace. To take into account this dynamic and the activities of many of our members in the country, Workplace Pride will be organising our 2nd conference entitled “Demystifying LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion in India” on March 21st of 2024 in Bengaluru. We will be working with Shell, as host of the event and a leading member of the Foundation, who, like many other organisations are striving to create workplaces in India where all employees can truly be themselves, including those from the LGBTIQ+ community.
With a backdrop of strong tradition, modernity and emerging economic might all in one, India is also at an important national crossroads as it moves towards greater equality for LGBTIQ+ people in society and what this means for workplaces. The challenges this represents for employers of all types, ranging from support and benefits to recruitment and retention, cannot be overstated. Navigating this future though does not need to be a mystery nor does it have to be done in isolation.
This highly-interactive conference will bring together major private and public sector employers in India, international experts, and many representatives from the well-developed LGBTIQ+ Civil Society in the country. All of these stakeholders will examine the issue of creating welcoming workplaces in preparation for the business and societal changes to come. The full-day conference will take place on Thursday, 21 March, 2024.
| Breakout: Location: Vijaynagar | Nr. 1: Measuring Success for LGBTIQ+ inclusion in India | Moderator: David Pollard Nikita Shah, Associate Director IWEI, Pride Circle Zahara Fernandes: MD – Accenture India Operations | Abstract: This session explores the KPI’s for LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion in India. We will hear from experts in the field as well as practitioners who identify clear steps for employers and community members alike. |
| Location: Trinity 1 | Nr. 2: Implementing LGBTIQ+ inclusive policies and practices | Moderator: Manisha Bhattacharya, MD Global Corporate Citizenship, James Fowler, Shell (their gender affirmation policy) – Dhritisha, Sr. Program Mgr. Pride Circle | Abstract: This session will look at case studies and real-life examples of what policies and practices work (and what doesn’t) in creating LGBTIQ+ inclusive workplaces. |
| Vijaynagar 2 (50 px) | Nr. 3: Leveraging Allies & Role Models for more progress | Moderator: Sabina Divien, Co-chair the Global LGBT+ Forum in Shell Sean Winnet, VP Asia Pacific Corporate Relations, Shell Debanjali Sengupta, Country Head, Shell Lubricants – Ankita Banerjee, Lead – ED&I CoE, APAC Region Head – Branding and ED&I (India) | Abstract: As the most important catalyst to change, allies and role models are a vital element in a comprehensive LGBTIQ+ strategy. This session takes a deep dive into this topic, including all of the nuances that need to be considered. |
| Location: Trinity 2 (40 px) | Nr. 4: Connecting Business to Civil Society in India | Moderator: Graham Sparks (Workplace Pride): Cristine Breva, Shell Philippines, Shubha Chacko, Solidarity Foundation | Abstract: Civil Society is the voice of the LGBTIQ+ community and businesses ignore them at their own peril. This session demonstrates the important link between these two parties and presents a useful toolkit that will open doors for more understanding and cooperation. |
Download the Declaration of India
Declaration of India for an LGBTQ Inclusive Workplace
March 21st, 2024
Preamble:
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states: ‘All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights’.
These values should apply equally to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and their Allies [+] (LGBTIQ+) people in their private lives and in working environments. On September 6th, 2018 The Indian Supreme Court unanimously ruled that Section 377 of the Indian Constitution is unconstitutional thus legalising homosexuality in India. This ruling has set the stage for ongoing reforms that will impact communities and workplaces for years to come.
It is difficult to right a wrong by history. But we can set the course for the future. This case involves much more than decriminalising homosexuality. It is about people wanting to live with dignity.
—Indian Supreme Court Chief Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud
Despite the progress on the judicial front, a 2023 survey by Deloitte* has shown that 34% of LGBTQ+** people in India say concerns about their personal safety are a barrier to being about at work. To ensure improvement in the workplace for LGBTIQ+ people, the Workplace Pride Foundation, The Solidarity Foundation and Pride Circle Foundation have created the Declaration of India, a call for action to all parties involved: LGBTIQ+ and non-LGBTIQ+ employees, Employers, Governments and other stakeholders in Indian society.
The Declaration of India is based in large degree on the Declaration of Amsterdam which was created in 2011 by Amsterdam-based Workplace Pride and which addresses a global audience. The Declaration of India, however, caters to the largest country in the world by population and acknowledges that a focused effort is required to ensure progress is made on LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. Both documents are designed to inspire employers and their employees to collaborate in ways that will benefit all stakeholders.
As civil society organisations that are closely connected with both employers and employees in India, the Workplace Pride, Solidarity and Pride Circle Foundations are well versed in collaboration. They also know that only with concrete changes to organisational cultures and workplace practices in India can progress on LGBTIQ+ matters be ensured in the country’s complex culture.
The Declaration of India strives for:
The parties signing this Declaration intend to work together with the three Foundations and other civil society organisations representing the LGBTIQ+ workplace community in India, to promote its 10 action points. By signing, they are committing to promote LGBTIQ+ inclusive workplaces throughout the country, both through internal and external communication. Finally, by signing the Declaration of India, they are agreeing to uphold the dignity and defend the rights of the LGBTIQ+ people who they employee to truly be themselves at work.
Declaration of India “Call to Action”
1. Employers must provide a safe, comfortable equal opportunity workplace and promote authenticity for LGBTIQ+ employees in India.
2. Employers should work closely with and benefit from the knowledge of other parties (employee networks and civil society organisations) dealing with LGBTIQ+ workplace issues in India to achieve improvements.
3. Employers should identify and support leaders and decision makers (LGBTIQ+ and non- LGBTIQ+) that actively strive to create LGBTIQ+ inclusive working environments in India.
4. LGBTIQ+ employees who choose to be visible at workshould actively strive to collaborate with their employers on diversity and inclusion, leading the way for all employees.
5. LGBTIQ+ employees should guide their employers on measures to support this Declaration’s goals and implementing best practices.
6. Employers and LGBTIQ+ employees should create and support structures in the organisation that ensure progress.
7. Employers should embed the Declaration’s concepts in organisational principles, and include them explicitly in external communications such as Annual and Corporate Responsibility Reports.
8. Employers and employees should develop and establish measurements that identify the level and progress of LGBTIQ+ inclusiveness within the organisation and benchmark this externally.
9. Employers should dedicate a minimum of ₹100 per employee in India to support LGBTIQ+ programs such asEmployee Resource Groups, mental health support, and prevention of workplace harassment.
10. Organisations should visibly support the improvement of working environments for their LGBTIQ+ employees wherever they are active in India.
28th February 2024 @ 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
About the Event
Are you passionate about fostering more diverse, equitable, and inclusive (DEI) workplaces? Eager to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world implementation, specifically in creating support for DEI policies? Join us at the inaugural stakeholder event “Creating Support for DEI Policy in Organizations“ of the Interuniversity Network on DEI on Friday, October 6th, 13.00-17.00 at Paushuize, Utrecht. This event provides an invaluable opportunity for researchers and practitioners to come together and advance the mission of creating DEI workplaces for all.
Event highlights
Research Talks: Dive into the latest DEI research insights from our speakers, uncovering the mechanisms fostering DEI policy support
Panel Discussion: Engage in dynamic conversations with DEI experts from academia and industry to learn academia and industry, and learn from impactful case studies
Bridging the Gap: Connect, collaborate, exchange ideas, and collectively brainstorm strategies with researchers and practitioners to address DEI challenges in diverse organizational contexts
Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network and connect with like-minded individuals committed to advancing DEI policy support
Event Details
Date: Friday 6 October, 2023
Time: 13:00 – 17:00 hours
Location: Paushuize, Utrect (wheelchair accesible)
Audience: All Workplace Pride members & anyone interested in Inclusion & LGBTQI+ topics
Registration
The event is in-person, please register using the Registration form
Organisers
Dr. Valentina Di Stasio and Prof. dr.Jojanneke van der Toorn. Please let us know if you will attend by completing the Registration form by September 24th.
Accessibility
We want the event to be accessible to everyone. Please note that the event location is wheelchair accessible.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
