DEI Citizen Day case study
What did you want to achieve?
Solvay’s mission is to “bond people, ideas and elements to reinvent progress.” The element of “People” is of utmost importance and holds a central role. Through the initiative ‘One Dignity’, we have prioritised Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in our Group’s overarching strategy. To translate this DEI commitment into tangible results, we have established nine challenging objectives to guarantee that every member of our team can fully express themselves at work. At the Zhenjiang Site, both management and the labour union are energetically working towards cultivating a more inclusive environment, where employees can discover and realise their own intrinsic value.
What did you do?
On October 22, 2022, the Zhenjiang site hosted our Citizen Day event along the Yangtze River, at a public camping park. With a focus on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), our theme was “I AM because WE ARE”. The aim was to promote the principles of “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion” to a wider audience, including both employees and children.
We collaborated with House of Snails, a local NGO dedicated to supporting families affected by autism. Ms. QIU Defeng, the principal of House of Snails, provided valuable insights into autism during the event. We extended invitations to several autism families, affectionately known as the “Children of the Stars”, to join us. Our goal was to facilitate their integration into society by engaging them in all the activities.
Remarkably, the event coincided with the birthday of one of our autism participants, LIU Luoyuan. He generously volunteered to oversee our charity bazaar, where all proceeds will be donated to House of Snails. Through this diverse array of activities, our aspiration is to plant a seed of understanding in every participant’s mind, fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusivity for all.
What are the results so far?
Engaging with the autistic community is not only an opportunity for our employees to gain valuable insights and understanding, but it also plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and acceptance. This direct interaction with different cultures and perspectives is invaluable for personal growth and fostering a more inclusive workplace. Additionally, by supporting the integration of autistic individuals into society, you’re contributing to a more inclusive and diverse community.
What have you learned?
Proactively engaging with minority populations is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and culturally sensitive workplace. It not only broadens perspectives but also helps to break down barriers and foster a more understanding and harmonious environment.
