Intersectionality is where there is overlapping of identities which combine to create different modes of discrimination and privilege. An intersectional approach considers factors that affect a person in combination, rather than considering each factor in isolation. For example, a disabled woman has two different protected characteristics, but rather than viewing their sex and disability separately, a holistic view examines the challenges faced by this person as a whole.
The third meeting of the Equalities Council, held in November, reviewed the work of the EDI Networks over the last year.
Since the last meeting, highlights from the BAME Network include the publication of resources around Ramadan and Islamophobia as well as hosting an event for Black History Month. The LGBT+ Network has seen the election of a new President, the publication of a statement around Gender Affirming Care, and attendance at Manchester Pride. NAWP hosted an event for International Women’s Day on the menopause and published resources to coincide with World Menopause Day, as well as attending the European Women Pharmacists Meeting (EWPM).
The Ability Network has published a factsheet around reasonable adjustments and continues to support members through regular online networking events. The Equalities Council also saw the launch of EDI Network flyers to coincide with National Inclusion Week in September.
Nahim Khan, co-opted member of the PDA BAME Network said, “Being invited to the Equalities Council was a great opportunity to update the other networks of the work of the BAME group and hear the fantastic work of the other networks. It was a very productive meeting to discuss how we could co-operate and work together on intersectional issues.”
Daniela Rusalim, Vice-President of the NAWP Network said, “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have participated in the Equalities Council. I am impressed and humbled by the tireless activity of the PDA’s Equality Networks and the meeting highlighted once again that the journey towards equality is not just a shared experience but a collective achievement that inspires and keeps us all going.”
Liam Volk, President of the LGBT+ Network said, “It was great to attend my first Equalities Council meeting – I left feeling proud of the work we had all done, as well as energised to explore how we can best collaborate on intersectional issues going forward.”
The networks encourage members to get in touch if they have ideas for future work by emailing organising@pda-union.org.
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