Guernsey’s Liberate is launching a new collaborative rainbow kitemark programme at the end of Pride Month and on the 52nd anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.
The Rainbow Mark has been created to support LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion across the Channel Islands.
Following consultation with organisations, a programme of this kind together with visible signage was requested by organisations to show that they are LGBTQ+ friendly and committed to fostering a supportive and welcoming culture for the LGBTQ+ community.
Liberate CEO Ellie Jones (pictured) said: “This is especially important in light of the current global wave of anti-LGBTQ+, and particularly anti-Trans+ rhetoric, something that the Channel Islands are sadly not exempt from.”
Participating businesses will receive introductory-level tools and guidance to help them with LGBTQ+ matters. The businesses also pledge to work with Liberate to resolve any issues.
“An example of an issue could be if an individual experiences homophobia or transphobia while accessing goods or services,” Ellie said. “We hope that, by offering a baseline of best practice and collaborating if issues occur, this will help to prevent discrimination and harassment, and people will feel confident that the organisation will deal with any issues if they arise.”
The Rainbow Mark programme is being launched with the support of Natwest International, part of RBS International. Robert Horrocks, Chief Financial Officer, RBS International said: “Creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace is integral to fulfilling our purpose at RBSI and we value the different perspectives that LGBTQ+ colleagues and customers bring.
“We are proud sponsors of the Rainbow Mark programme and look forward to working with Liberate and other participating organisations to help ensure our bank is a welcoming place for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity”.
A lunch and learn session is being held at the Chamber of Commerce on Friday 28th June, which is already fully booked. There is then a more relaxed presentation that people can attend at an afterwork mixer at 5pm, or businesses are invited to pop by in the afternoon to pick up a Rainbow Mark pack and find out more.
