June is international Pride month and this year as part of Selyn’s continuous efforts to promote diversity and equality in the workplace, we have partnered with EQUAL GROUND, a non-profit organisation seeking economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning/Queer (LGBTIQ) community of Sri Lanka. The PIN IT WITH PRIDE partnership is launched in order to raise awareness, educate and support the LGBTIQ+ cause in Sri Lanka. This collaboration with EQUAL GROUND will not only ensure that staff of Selyn will receive “Diversity in Workforce” training but profits from the sale of the rainbow flower pins and the extended Pride collection will go towards supporting the continuous work and advocacy of EQUAL GROUND.
Selyn continues its legacy of identifying social issues and trying to lead by example and create change. “Having exported toys for nearly 30 years, our international brand “Selyn Play” hosts a series of educational toys which are created to promote diversity and respect for others. To celebrate Pride, we transformed our “diversity dolls” to represent what we call the rainbow families, a series of dolls which can be utilized to educate children about the diverse family structures within LGBTIQ+ communities around the world. We may not be able to change discriminatory laws and practices, but we can use our product to create impact. We can also take the necessary steps to educate our staff, support and collaborate with like-minded passionate organizations making a difference and hopefully be a source of inspiration for others. If we can stand by our LGBTIQ+ staff and community allies then others should too!” says Director Business Development Selyna Peiris.
“We’ve come a long way in terms of LGBTIQ+ rights and awareness in Sri Lanka but we still have a long way to go! Industry partnerships, especially those with partners that work across rural areas and outside of big cities are a good way to help spread awareness and education. We are therefore delighted that Selyn has joined hands with us for Pride and will continue after that with instilling diversity and inclusion in their workplace!” says founder and activist Rosanna Flamer- Caldera.
The PIN IT WITH PRIDE rainbow flower is made from 100% handloom fabric by Selyns artisans. Made with pride and love it can be purchased along with the greater Pride collection available in Selyn, Fife Road Colombo and online via www.selyn.lk
