Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

A core focus of Solidarity Foundation’s work has always been ensuring safe spaces for the communities we work with. Engaging with our stakeholders to bridge the gap and create awareness and sensitisation about our grassroots communities - female sex workers, persons living with HIV and the LGBTIAQ+ community - began with the inception of the organisation. The DE&I pillar was formally established to respond to increased need for sensitisation and awareness programs from stakeholders like corporates, nonprofits, and public sector partners, particularly while negotiating with them for livelihood opportunities for our communities.

The DE&I pillar is driven by the goal of advancing inclusive, safe, and supportive environments for the communities we work with, seeking to address intersectional discrimination and promote opportunities for economic empowerment, leadership development, and social equity. Grounded in an intersectional approach recognising compounded impacts of caste, class, health, labour, disability, gender, and sexuality, the DE&I pillar aims to transform workplaces, communities, and organisations into inclusive spaces where all individuals experience respect, dignity, and agency. Through stakeholder partnerships, community-centred training, and negotiation, the DE&I pillar builds bridges between our communities and mainstream society, fostering systemic change in attitudes and practices.

Key Focus Areas / Sub-Themes

  1. Sensitisation and Awareness-building - Deliver customised workshops, webinars, and sensitisation sessions for workplaces, educational institutions, and healthcare providers.
  2. Creative Engagement and Innovative Offerings - Implement arts-based learning programs, gamified sessions, and community-centred activities to engage participants in a meaningful, experiential way.
  3. Community Empowerment and Leadership Development - Train individuals from marginalised communities to become DE&I facilitators, enabling them to lead sensitisation sessions and champion inclusion.
  4. Intersectional Awareness and Policy Engagement - Collaborate with corporate partners, NGOs, and governmental bodies to provide inputs and review inclusive policies and frameworks.
  5. Corporate and Institutional Partnerships - Develop and maintain long-term collaborations with corporate entities, educational institutions, NGOs, and start-ups to promote inclusive hiring practices and workplace cultures.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) -

  • 4 - Quality Education
  • 5 - Gender Equality
  • 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • 10 - Reduced Inequalities