Omnicom agencies are committing to move beyond the binary to mark International Pronouns Day as part of Open Pride, a global employee resource group committed to inclusion and diversity.
As part of the initiative, Omnicom agencies, including DDB, PHD and Clemenger Group, have committed to ensuring all policies promote gender-inclusive language and have encouraged staff to share their preferred pronouns.
The initiative launches today with a virtual event featuring keynote speaker Mary Haddock-Staniland from New Zealand’s National Body for Workplace Diversity and Inclusion, ahead of International Pronouns Day on the 21st of October. Mary says having open and honest conversations like this help change the dial for everyone, both in marginalised and for their allies and advocates. Education is power. Knowledge is key.
International Pronouns Day aims to make respecting and educating about personal pronouns commonplace in all aspects of life. It acknowledges that society has many identities and we are stronger together when we feel respected and valued. In particular, for those in the transgender and gender non-conforming communities, chosen pronouns can be a celebration of identity.
Open Pride Co-Chair Chris Donnellon says: “One of our key goals at Open Pride is to normalise conversations about gender and create safe environments. Some people are still developing their gender identity and/or it may not be safe for them to express their gender identity due to personal circumstances. We are striving to create a working environment where people feel safe, respected and celebrated and know they are safe to express their true selves. We’re encouraging the wider industry to do the same.”
Clemenger Melbourne CEO Jim Gall says: “The Open Pride committee continues to prove the impact we can have as an industry if we use our collective power to celebrate and institutionalise diversity and inclusion. I’m proud to add my pronouns to my email signature today in a small step to creating more inclusive practices for the future and continue the conversation.”
