03 Dec 2022

Diversity Lens - Issue 105

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Dec 3

Diversity Lens - Issue 105

Welcome to Diversity Lens.

Do you have any goals for the upcoming winter holiday?
Research indicates that working personal goals into your time away from work can maximise your recovery and may lead to greater happiness.

Whether your festive break will be filled with social get-togethers and Christmas markets, or more sofa-orientated activities, make sure you get the rest you need. And lots and lots of lateral flow tests...

‘Group of Hastings fishermen block RNLI lifeboat crew’ from helping migrants at sea
The Independent

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution is 95% volunteer-led and funded by voluntary donations. The volunteers risk treacherous conditions to save countless lives at sea every day. When they responded to a recent incident at Hastings, it was reported that local fishermen attempted to block their path to rescue a group of migrants crossing the channel, and succeeded for some time.

The fishermen were allegedly shouting "anti-migrant sentiments". "You could hear the hatred in their voice", the witness said.

With the government's increasing severity against asylum seekers crossing the channel, the RNLI was recently forced to defend their life-saving work.

Don't forget, there is no such thing as an illegal asylum seeker - crossing the channel to claim asylum is not against the law. Despite this, Home Secretary Priti Patel has proposed a bill to make this crossing “unviable” with suggestions to "push" the boats back to France.
A group of MPs have said this bill would breach human rights laws. Meanwhile, humanitarian groups call for the UK to provide safe routes for asylum seeking in the UK.

Donate to the RNLI here.

Other ways to support refugees coming to the UK.

Text: IN OTHER NEWS. Background image shows picture of protestors.

The stigma of an HIV diagnosis has lessened considerably since the 80s, thanks in part to the brave and inspiring role models who have spoken out over the years and opened up about their HIV status. There is still a lot more work to do however to combat HIV discrimination. To mark World AIDS Day this week, lets pay thanks to icons who have worked so hard to break down the stigma; from Billy Porter to Rock Hudson.

Virgil Abloh: Off-White designer dies at 41

The fashion icon and Creative Director of Louis Vuitton, Virgil Abloh, had been battling an aggressive and rare form of cancer for two years.
A post from Virgil's official Instagram page broke the news: "we are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, he chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019". Virgil redefined fashion with his own brand Off-White and the vast collaboration from brands such as Nike, Ikea, Mercedes and many more. He dedicated his life to opening doors and creating pathways for greater equality in art and design.

"He always worked for a greater cause than his own illustrious career: to open the door to art and fashion for future generations, so that they – unlike himself – would grow up in a creative world with people to mirror themselves in.”

Norway’s ‘gay Santa’ advert is achingly beautiful and something we should celebrate

Step aside John Lewis, a Christmas advert from Norway looks like being the one to watch this year. The postal service campaign called “When Harry Met Santa” celebrates 50 years since homosexuality was decriminalised in Norway. In the ad, Harry and Santa enjoy spending time together just one day a year - Christmas Eve - until Santa employs some help and they share a kiss.

Text: ENTER THE WORK SPHERE. Background image shows picture of protestors.

Young black Londoners twice as likely to be jobless

A joint investigation by the Evening Standard and The Independent reveals a staggering 37.4 per cent of black Londoners aged 16-24 who are economically active, are unemployed. Despite record job vacancies, with nearly 1.2 million jobs available, young black Londoners are twice as likely to be unemployed compared to their white counterparts with more than one in three going jobless.
Tamika and Tyrone share their struggles.

The Dos and Don’ts of How to Support Your Trans Colleagues

This piece from Tate Smith makes clear the 'dos and don'ts' of trans inclusion in the workplace. They recommend implementing a trans workplace policy, keeping up-to-date with trans rights and reaching out to colleagues. Read more on what you should be doing to foster a trans-inclusive workplace, and what you definitely shouldn't - like focusing on someone's medical history.

Be intentional about how you spend your time off

Regular time away from work is encouraged to avoid burnouts - but what should this look like? In order to best protect our wellbeing, HBR suggest that "passive rest" may not be as effective as goal-orientated holidays. Whether it is cleaning your house, spending time with friends or visiting art galleries, laying out a plan for a "proactive recovery" may maximise your re-charge time.