FIRST 2021 BANANA CLUB DIALOGUES RAISES AWARENESS ON WORKPLACE INCLUSION OF LGBTQI+ COMMUNITY

Banana Emoji Productions in collaboration with the Delegation of the European Union in Botswana is set to host yet another instalment of the BANANA CLUB dialogues, on the 22nd of May 2021, under the theme, “Queer Representation and Inclusion in the Workplace”.

Banana Emoji Productions remains resolute in identifying ways in which the ARTivism organisation can foster initiatives that provide relevant and impactful differences in underrepresented communities.

The upcoming dialogue is the second collaboration between Banana Emoji Productions and the Delegation of European Union in Botswana.  Deputy Head of Delegation, Silvia Bopp-Hamrouni, said:  “The European Union is honored to collaborate with Banana Emoji once again in advocating for the LGBTQI+ community in Botswana. Our Strategy for LGBTIQ Equality proposes to integrate the fight against discrimination affecting LGBTIQ people in all EU policies and, among other actions, to promote inclusion and diversity in the workplace. We champion the use of dialogue to highlight the experiences of LGBTQI+ Batswana and create opportunities for further inclusion, and understanding.”

Speaking on the upcoming session’s theme, the event curator, Tanlume Enyatseng said, “With this engagement the goal is to understand the experiences of today’s LGBTQI+ workforce and how companies can create more inclusive workplaces. Research shows that despite significant investment and decades of hard work, organisations still need to do more. Today 40% of LGBTQI+ employees are closeted at work and 75% have reported experiencing negative day-to-day workplace interactions related to their identity. I hope participants who attend are able to walk away with some self-awareness of how they are communicating and interacting with others as a leader or subordinate in the workplace.”

BANANA CLUB continues to aim at creating platforms for dialogue to lead the conversation about key issues in the youth, creative and predominantly queer community. The club has created a network of individuals and organisations that works together to challenge discourse, educate, empower and engage Batswana at large on matters affecting the youth, creative and LGBTQI+ community.

Concluded Tanlume, “We are excited to kick-start our year of dialogues. This year we wish to extend our voices beyond the Gaborone region with future sessions being held in other cities. This will hopefully create visibility for queer youth in locations outside of the capital city.”

BANANA CLUB dialogues are open to the general public with priority given to members of the LGBTQI+ community. Registration to attend the dialogue is free but limited. To secure a space in advance please email bananaemojibw@gmail.com.  Details for the venue will be shared via email upon registration. Due to the COVID-19 health risks, strict health protocols will be in place.