Posted: Friday 15 May 2020, 13:31
17 May 2020 marks International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), which celebrates LGBT+ rights and culture.
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service joins a number of organisations locally and thousands of people in the UK and worldwide to promote their ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the wider society, supporting ‘Breaking the Silence’, this year’s theme for IDAHOBIT.
It is important to recognise that the day is not one single campaign and the need to promote inclusion is our everyday goal. The day is a reminder that discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender continues within society, including some workplaces, but also highlights the need to continue playing an active role to ensure that we promote a culture of inclusivity and diversity.
Derbyshire’s Chief Fire Officer / Chief Executive, Gavin Tomlinson said: “All people, without exception, have a right to be themselves without fear of abuse or discrimination. DFRS continues to work with local LGBT+ groups and partner organisations, to ensure that as an employer and a public sector body, we are accessible, inclusive and open to all.”
“2019/20 has seen our LGBT+ & Allies employee network facilitate various LGBT+ awareness sessions and initiatives, support local events such as the inaugural Pride in Belper, Chesterfield and Derby Pride, continuously engaging with partners locally and nationally.”
“For the first time, DFRS has been ranked in the Top 100 LGBT+ Inclusive Employers by Stonewall, testament to our values and the hard work and commitment demonstrated by all of our employees.”
The Chair of the Fire & Rescue Authority Kevin Buttery, said: “It is important for us to show our commitment to equality of service for all our communities, of which Derbyshire’s LGBT+ community is an important part.”
“In truth we still have some way to go, but we are determined to reach out to all our communities and make our Service one that is recognised as accessible to all people, both as an employer and a service provider.”
“Everyone plays a crucial role in changing attitudes towards LGBT+ people at work, home and within our communities. By coming together on this day and breaking the silence, we send an important communication to our colleagues and communities who need a message of hope and solidarity that we all matter.”
Gavin Tomlinson Kevin Buttery
Chief Fire Officer /Chief Executive Chair of the Fire & Rescue Authority