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This page, updated regularly, is intended as a hub for useful information related to DE&I. If you have questions or things you would like to see hosted on this page – get in touch!

Beyond the Binary

Partnering with OutLine, Spark have taken the opportunity to help Kiwis build better relationships with their data, starting with gender representation. The internet is still run on a binary system that hasn't changed since the 1950s. If you identify beyond the gender binary of male or female, you may feel invisible in your experiences online. Beyond Binary Code aims to change that.

Beyond the Binary aims to help businesses re-evaluate if, when and how they ask for gender data. First by assessing if capturing gender data is even necessary, and if it is, generating an HTML code that can be added to their website to make forms and fields more gender inclusive.

The code also includes supporting materials that help businesses apply good data privacy practices, get company buy-in and create change within your organisation.

 

The Aotearoa Inclusivity Matrix

The Aotearoa Inclusivity Matrix is an evidence-based framework developed specifically for New Zealand workplaces that allows organisations to identify the maturity of their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices across seven components. It will provide a basis for workplaces to understand their current capabilities, identify areas for improvement and create a roadmap for transformation.

The creation of the Aotearoa Inclusivity Matrix provides:

  • A national standard for workplace DEI in New Zealand

  • A strategic roadmap for the design of programmes, training and projects delivered by Diversity Works New Zealand, the national body for workplace diversity and inclusion

You can download a copy of the framework and a guide to help with implementing the framework, along with lots more helpful information here.

 

Data Collection of SOGIESC – statistical standards

Advocating for the collection of correct data (particularly around sex and gender) is an awesome step HR can take in helping make their workplaces safe and empowering for rainbow people.

Stats NZ has a series of standards (developed through a review process with extensive public consultation, input from government agencies, international peers, and the support of an external advisory group including subject matter experts and community advocates) that provide guidance for data collection in your organisation. 

Toolbox

 

Reports and Surveys

  • Counting Ourselves is the first community report from the Counting Ourselves survey about the health and wellbeing of trans and non-binary people in Aotearoa New Zealand.
  • Prism Report explores six human rights issues relating to people with a diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics in Aotearoa New Zealand and provides recommendations on each issue.
  • We Count 2019 survey was developed by the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Cross-Agency Rainbow Network (CARN) to explore both the diversity (who we are) and inclusion (how we are) of our rainbow public service employees.
  • Supporting Aotearoa’s rainbow people is a practical guide for mental health professionals
  • Takatāpui – Part of the whanau is a resource for takatāpui (a traditional Māori term meaning ‘intimate companion of the same sex’), their whanau and communities, sharing stories and information about identity, wellbeing and suicide prevention.

 

Disability and Accessibility

An accessible workplace is a crucial part of ensuring that everyone has dignity, independence, and equal access to every part of their workplace including but not limited to opportunities, technology, communications and the physical workspace.

Below is a list of resources that can help ensure workplaces are accessible for all, and provide a safe and inclusive environment for disabled workers and customers.

 

Supporting Disabled Peoples in Employment - MSD

The Lead Toolkit contains information and resources for business owners, leadership teams, managers and human resources teams to help them employ disabled people within their businesses.

https://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/work-programmes/lead-programme-work/lead-toolkit/index.html

 

New Zealand Disability Strategy - Office for Disability Issues

The New Zealand Disability Strategy will guide the work of government agencies on disability issues from 2016 to 2026 and can also be used by any individual or organisation who wants to learn more about, and make the best decisions on, things that are important to disabled people. https://www.odi.govt.nz/nz-disability-strategy/

 

Digital and Web Accessibility

Making sure everyone, including disabled people and those using assistive technologies, can access online information and services is a crucial consideration for all workplaces. For general information on the importance and benefits visit: https://www.digital.govt.nz/standards-and-guidance/design-and-ux/accessibility/

For the latest guidance on making web content accessible, including new topics that have been developed in consultation with digital practitioners, see the Web Accessibility Guidance project — NZ Government(external link).

 

Other Information

 

National Rainbow Organisations:

  • OutLine Aotearoa - confidential, free, LGBTQI+- affirming support line and face-to-face counselling - phone 0800 688 5463 or visit OutLine Aotearoa.
  • Rainbow Youth - support and referral services, drop-in centres, peer-support groups and resources for queer and gender diverse youth and their wider communities across Aotearoa.
  • InsideOUT - Resources, education, hui and tools to produce safer schools and communities for young people of minority genders, sexes and sexualities.
  • Gender Minorities Aotearoa - Information about gender-affirming healthcare and changing ID documents, a free binder project, access to free facial IPL, drop-in shop and centre, a database of community support services around the country, and an online peer-support group, based on a kaupapa Māori approach.