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Together against discrimination17 May is dedicated to the "IDAHOBIT"
IDAHOBIT raises awareness that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is still a reality. By taking a clear stand and embracing diversity, thyssenkrupp sends a strong message for respectful coexistence – together with the LQBTQIA+ network.
Together for diversity and acceptence
Jan Rohde is committed to the protection and acceptance of same-sex lifestyles and gender diversity at thyssenkrupp. Because people are still discriminated against because of their sexuality, as the Expert Employer Branding explains. The International Day Against Homo-, Bi-, Inter- and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17 draws attention to the discrimination and punishment of LGBTQIA+ people. A date that is also of great importance to thyssenkrupp and many of its employees. For good reasons.
“It would be amazing if one day it was normal for people with diverse sexual orientations to exist in our society, and the whole thing ceased to be an issue or subject worth discussing.”
Jan is part of the LGBTQIA+-Network “pride@tk” – a community of more than 100 like-minded people who support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual/transgender, queer, intersex and asexual staff at thyssenkrupp.
IDAHOBIT draws attention to the discrimination that LGBTQIA+ people experience
“As long as people continue to experience discrimination, we need to advocate for LGBTQIA+ communities and their representation,” explains Jan adamantly. It is for this exact reason that The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Transphobia and Interphobia (or “IDAHOBIT” for short) exists. IDAHOBIT, which has been held on 17 May each year since 2005, has an important goal: to draw attention to the discrimination and punishment that LGBTQIA+ people experience because of their sexual orientation or gender identity by campaigning, attracting the attention of the media, and lobbying. 17 May was specifically chosen as the date for IDAHOBIT to commemorate the day on which the World Health Organization decided to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder (!) in 1990.
“IDAHOBIT represents a very important opportunity to start a global dialogue between people of diverse sexual orientations and the society in which we live. We want to create a safe space where diversity is visible and where we treat one another with respect.”
"Even in liberal democracies, people are discriminated against because of their sexuality"
Ursula Martin, another member of the network, emphasizes how dramatic the situation still is for people with different sexual orientations. "In my view, this day is particularly important because it is relevant worldwide and reminds us that in many countries we are still at risk of violence, imprisonment or even the death penalty." Her colleague Dennis Maurer adds: "Even in liberal democracies like Germany, people are discriminated against because of their identity or sexuality. Whether verbally or physically."
Today, it is more important than ever to set an example against discrimination. That's why thyssenkrupp is also taking part in IDAHOBIT on May 17. On this day, rainbow flags will be hoisted at numerous locations. "Rainbow flags will also be flown at the thyssenkrupp headquarters in Essen," reports Ursula Martin. "Likewise at thyssenkrupp Steel in Duisburg and at the headquarters. And these are just a few examples of measures at thyssenkrupp. Other locations will also fly the flag."
Diversity and inclusion: an integral part of thyssenkrupp’s corporate culture
This commitment is no coincidence. On the contrary: diversity and inclusion management has been an integral part of thyssenkrupp’s HR policy for many years. “At thyssenkrupp, we value one another,” emphasizes Kathrin Dennler, Head of Human Resources Management. “All employees should have the same opportunities here. That is part of our corporate culture.”
According to Ursula Martin, the personal support of the company’s leadership sends an especially important signal. “I see diversity as a major strength at thyssenkrupp. As an LGBTQIA+ community, we have the backing of the company’s management.” Colleagues who identify with the LGBTQIA+ community can therefore also be assured of thyssenkrupp’s support on IDAHOBIT.
IDAHOBIT is an important date for the LGBTQIA+ community. It should be an important date for all of us.