IHRA seeks support for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative: Creating Belonging for People with Innate Variations of Sex Characteristics

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Intersex Human Rights Australia has launched an initiative to provide consultation, training and policy support for the provision of diversity, equity and inclusion programs that include the unique needs of people with innate variations of sex characteristics. Individuals born with innate variations of sex characteristics face unique challenges, including stigma and discrimination. Often mischaracterised or excluded from LGBTI+ programs, the needs of intersex people are distinct and require specialised attention.

Programs like ACON’s Pride in Diversity have acknowledged these gaps, and intersex-specific training and support is needed to give DEI practitioners what they need to address these unique needs. Current DEI programs with an LGBQTIA+ focus do not consider or include intersex specific issues and even operate in places where human rights violations continue to happen. IHRA believes that safety must come before inclusion, otherwise the inclusion is tokenistic. Genuine DEI policies MUST be meaningful to be impactful and cannot be box ticking exercises.

Margie McCumstie, Training & Communications Coordinator at IHRA has outlined the exciting new project focused on workplace inclusion for people with innate variations of sex characteristics. This initiative includes developing training for diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioners, policy support, and capacity building. Margie is welcoming enquiries and offers of personal, organisational and financial support to ensure this project can be established in 2025. Financial support tiers are outlined in the prospectus document with the aim to recruit a specialist and create impactful resources.

Join Us: Become a founding partner or supporter. Commit to a 3-year partnership and help us foster inclusive workplaces. For more information, download the full prospectus.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Prospectus

Margie also welcomes your emails at margie.mccumstie@ihra.org.au.

Let’s work together to create truly inclusive environments for everyone.

On a dark green leafy background are the words: "Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Creating belonging and meaningful inclusion for people with innate variations of sex characteristics" Image of Intersex Human Rights logo.