Under this motto, numerous regional network meetings with workshop elements on a wide range of queer topics in the workplace took place in 2024. What makes these events so valuable is the cross-company exchange and the broad diversity of perspectives from small companies to large corporations.
‘Hate speech on the intranet’ with BASF on April 9, 2024 in Ludwigshafen
In preparation for Pride Month, this TOGATHERING focused on dealing with anti-queer comments and hate speech on internal channels and deliberately expanded the group of participants to include communication specialists. Together, helpful approaches were developed in order to be able to act both preventively and actively. The interaction of network, D&I and comms – for comprehensive expertise – was identified as an important factor. Afterwards, all participants were invited to a classical music concert, which also took place in BASF’s Feierabendhaus.
‘How To: Sustainable networking in a fluid working world’ with EY on April 15, 2024 in Berlin
Networks are strong and established institutions – but they need to be based on sustainable commitment and diverse participation in order to develop their full potential. The participants intensively discussed how structures and tools can ensure consistency in networking in an increasingly fluid working world. At the same time, they exchanged views on networking that takes place across many locations and on cooperation with D&I.
‘Intersectionality’ with Deutsche Post DHL on May 16, 2024 in Bonn
On the occasion of IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homo-, Bi-, Inter*- and Trans*Hostility), a TOGATHERING on the topic of intersectionality took place at the Post Tower in Bonn. The event shed light on what intersectional approaches can look like within the queer community. In addition, the participants developed inspirations for intersectional work between the different company networks. Following the event, the Post Tower was illuminated with the colorful lettering “delivered with pride” as a visible sign of IDAHOBIT.
‘Role Models – Embracing Diversity’ with Audi on June 27, 2024 in Neuburg an der Donau
Contrary to the usual schedule, this TOGATHERING started in the afternoon with a driving experience for all participants on the Audi site in Neuburg an der Donau. After this special experience and introductory words from the then CMO Henrik Wenders, the participants focused on the roles and tasks of role models in various areas – from executives to the network to the production area.
‘Queer diversity in times of multiple crises’ with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer on September 5, 2024 in Berlin
We are living in times of multiple crises and social change – from pandemics, war and inflation to the rise of far-right forces. As a result, there is a noticeable increase in hate crimes – especially for marginalized groups. The overarching commitment of all actors is necessary to form a counterbalance to exclusion and discrimination. This TOGATHERING focused on the sphere of influence of companies: How can an attitude towards queer diversity be demonstrated and how can safer spaces be designed for employees?
‘Queer perspectives on top management – from executive allies to queer career paths’ with Hays on September 17, 2024 in Mannheim
Queer diversity must be anchored at all levels of the company. An important pillar for the successful and sustainable implementation of queer diversity is the commitment of top management. Imke Mahner, CPCO Germany and CEMEA at Hays, made her support for the topic visible both in her welcoming speech and through her participation in the discussions.
‘Queer Diversity meets advertising agencies – diversity-sensitive communication’ with Pahnke Group and the Gesamtverband Kommunikationsagenturen GWA on October 21, 2024 in Hamburg
Diversity-sensitive communication – in words, images and attitudes – serves to make people’s differences visible and overcome exclusion without reproducing stereotypical role models. The challenges are often authentic campaigns that skillfully combine diversity and brand message. After a theoretical input on gender-sensitive language, the participants focused on the concrete implementation of diversity-sensitive communication and also reflected on influencing factors such as the composition of teams.
‘Out & Proud – Queer Authenticity in the Workplace’ with MunichRe on November 7, 2024 in Munich
Growing acceptance ensures that people can express their gender identity and sexual orientation ever more freely and authentically – in a wide variety of ways and according to their individual ideas. Social notions of authenticity and professionalism are evolving and stereotypical expectations are being challenged. At this TOGATHERING, participants addressed the question of how an open and inclusive environment can be promoted – an environment that goes beyond clothing and promotes a holistic recognition of identity.
‘Big Impact ERG – appreciative and successful networking’ with Capgemini, MAN and Microsoft on November 25, 2024 in Munich
Three companies joined forces for this TOGATHERING to discuss the importance and role of employee networks in the company with numerous participants from different companies. In particular, challenges in day-to-day networking, connecting elements across many locations and integration into the external positioning of the company were discussed. The large number of different perspectives enriched this event at Capgemini’s premises in a special way.
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