OIC takes pride in diversity and inclusivity

Pride Month offers a chance for workplaces to engage with, and increase understanding of, the LGBTQ+ community and promote inclusion. 

We take pride in being an inclusive employer supporting equality and diversity, and the progress flag will be flown by OIC at the Council Offices on 29 June to mark Pride Month. 

But it isn’t just about the Pride Month flag because LGBTQ+ inclusion takes place 365 days of the year. As an employer we can play a part this Pride Month by stepping up and taking action to make sure everyone in the LGBTQ+ community feels safe and included at work, every day.  

Our People policies are inclusive for all and don’t make assumptions, and our zero-tolerance approach to unwanted workplace behaviours aim to create a safe environment for all colleagues. 

“Too many people have been lost just because they have felt they could never be accepted. The flying of the flag and Pride Month gives us the opportunity to say we accept you into our community and even better into our very diverse workforce. Have pride in who you are, we are all different, but just being accepting of all differences is how it should be.” 

Those are the words of Council employees, Karl and Andrew Kemp, who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. 

They recently returned from Eurovision 2024 – which is seen as one of the world’s most inclusive and diverse music events – an annual musical extravaganza which happens just ahead of Pride Month during June. 

They enjoy sharing their adventures because it’s important for everyone to be represented no matter who they are – which they hope makes others feel less isolated and alone. You can find out more about Karl and Andrew’s Eurovision experience here:  https://www.orkney.gov.uk/News?postid=9347 

Orkney Islands Council Convener, Graham Bevan, said: “Flying the progress flag shows a commitment by the Council to celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community whilst calling for a more inclusive society. 

“I commend Karl and Andrew for sharing their adventures in a bid to encourage others to simply accept others for who they are. There is no room in this Council, Orkney or the wider world for prejudice and inequities. That's why we are determined to continue building on a culture of inclusion at the Council; creating a safe and inclusive workplace.” 

Are you new to Pride Month and unsure of what LGBTQ+ actually means? It stands for lesbian, gay, bi, trans and any other gender identity or sexual orientation that isn’t on the list. There is lots of easy-to-understand information around LGBTQ+ here: https://shorturl.at/cvUnI 

To get involved in celebrating Pride Month, you can find out more about the local events by visiting the Orkney Pride Facebook pages.