On May 17th, Inspire Foundation celebrated the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia & Transphobia (IDAHOBIT). As the foundation for inclusion, equality and non-discrimination are key pillars on which we base our messages – we recognise the importance of every individual feeling appreciated and accepted and firmly believe that everyone has the right to live their lives as they are and should never have to adapt their identities to conform to society’s expectations.
Indeed, the biggest challenge is for society to change and for social barriers to be removed so that all individual needs are met regardless of disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. Only by embracing the full diversity of Malta as a community can we truly say we are an inclusive society.
We invited our staff to take team photos, forming a rainbow, and to leave anonymous messages showing their support for members of the LGBT+ community, focusing on equality and inclusion. Here’s what they had to say:
“Love is never wrong”
“Embrace all people”
“Inclusion is having a voice, and equality is having that voice be heard”
“When everyone is included, everyone wins. The greater the diversity, the greater the perfection. Strength lies in differences, not similarities. Peace and love to all.”
“When we listen and celebrate what is both common and different, we become wiser, more inclusive, and better as an organisation”
“Respect and love each other. God bless.”
“When all the differences disappear, when everybody feels glad to stay next to each other without barriers, without judgements, without malice. No oppressors, where verybody feels free to express themselves. Siamo Tutti Uguali.”
“Everybody has the right to choose what makes them happy, because love knows no boundaries. Keep your faith in what you believe in, as what matters most is the intention & purity of one’s heart”
“We are all different and life is a little weird. If one day you come between being right and being kind, please choose to be kind. Everyone can be right, but not everyone can be kind.”
“Love each other, respect & acceptance”
“We want a culture that is inclusive of everyone and where everyone who joins feels they have opportunities to succeed and grow”
“Keep up the faith and love”
“Regardless of who we are, we still have each right to be loved and belong to a supportive community that upholds equality”
“We are all different, which is great because we are all unique. Without diversity, life would be very boring – many different flowers make up a bouquet”
“The path to diversity begins with supporting mentoring and supporting diverse persons to become leaders and entrepreneurs”
“One goal for everyone”
“We are all EQUAL”
“Let us all teach love and acceptance to our children, for a better future filled with respect”
“Equality should be with everyone, with no exceptions, and respect the same with each and every one of us”
“Everyone is accepted and loved”
“More equality. More humanity. More acceptance. More love.”
