Fondation Émergence launches its 2012 campaign for the International Day Against Homophobia - May 17

Sexual diversity in the workplace. It pays off!

MONTREAL, Feb. 3, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Fondation Émergence launches today its 2012 campaign to fight homophobia as a lead-in to the International Day Against Homophobia on May 17.

This year's campaign called Sexual Diversity in the Workplace, It Pays Off aims to inform everyone in the working world that sexual diversity is a financial asset.

For too long, scores of gays and lesbians have seen themselves or been perceived as victims of homophobia in their places of work. But, alas, homophobia still exists and the fight to end it must go on. "Fondation Émergence still believes that the best way to win the fight is to show people that sexual diversity in the workplace is profitable," says its President, Laurent McCutcheon.

There are many ways that sexual diversity in the workplace pays off. If we start from the perspective of financial returns and productivity at work and make the necessary adjustments for sexual orientation, it is very obviously a win-win situation for employers if they adopt a positive attitude toward their gay and lesbian workers. Companies that are open to sexual diversity, which is already the case in many workplaces, are more likely to see higher productivity, more motivated workers, a better work atmosphere and increased interest in their businesses. From this standpoint, the concept of human capital really makes sense. More details about these ideas are provided in the pamphlet.

Promotional materials

The campaign uses a bee as its symbol, the universal sign of work and productivity. The awareness campaign has a poster and a pamphlet that explains why creating workplaces that are accepting of gay, lesbian, and transgender people is profitable for companies.

Digital versions of the visual aids can be downloaded at www.homophobie.org and fondationemergence.org. Printed materials can be ordered free of charge by filling out the order form on the website, and a request can be made to cover shipping charges.

Join us, this is your day!

The campaign is promoting the slogan Join us, this is your day! Every year over 500 groups and organizations join the campaign to distribute materials, put up posters and organize activities. The media are invited to publish information on sexual orientation and homophobia.

A campaign guide is available listing the annual activities being held by the groups and organizations. It is designed to suggest a range of activities for anyone interested in joining the campaign.

Fondation Émergence will soon be announcing the winner of the Fight Against Homophobia Award and a special conference on the theme Sexual diversity in the workplace, It pays off.

The campaign has been made possible through help from sponsors and partners, including the government of Quebec, Telus, Banque Nationale, Desjardins, the Quebec Gay Chamber of Commerce, Pride at Work, major trade unions and the community associations.

Source:	Fondation Émergence 514-866-6788 www.fondationemergence.org www.homophobie.org
Info:	President, Laurent McCutcheon 514-522-7614 Director, Robert Laramée 514-866-6788