Open Diversity Day is an institution for Diversity Charter Greece and offers an open platform for dialogue, awareness-raising and exchange of good practices around inclusion, equality and accessibility in the workplace.
The event began with a greeting from the President of KEAN and founder of Diversity Charter Greece, Stavros Milionis , who underlined the importance of organizations’ active commitment to implementing equality and inclusion practices, emphasizing that diversity is our wealth and inclusion is the tool to utilize it, calling on businesses, organizations and institutions to invest in open cultures, with respect for everyone’s identities .
Her speech followed. Dr. Parvis Palmou, Gestalt Psychotherapist, IAAGT and Head of the Mental Health Team of the Transgender Support Association (SYD), which emphasized the importance of investing in mental health and inclusion. Through data, experiential examples and practical principles, Dr. Palmou highlighted that good mental health and genuine inclusion are not only a moral obligation, but a critical condition for the competitiveness of organizations . As she characteristically noted, “diversity is not simply tolerated, but is transformed into a common force that pushes us forward” .
In the first panel discussion, Dimitris Mazos (HR Manager, Athenian Brewery) and George Kynigopoulos (HR Business Partner, Marks & Spencer) shared their experiences of integrating the principles of equality and inclusion into corporate culture . They referred to the importance of training on Diversity & Inclusion issues, pointing out that these strengthen cooperation, trust and the sense of security of employees .
The second panel was held on the occasion of the International Day Against LGBTQI+ Biphobia (IDAHOBIT). Ivi Kaiserli and Grigoris Vallianatos highlighted the progress made by the LGBTQI+ community, as well as the challenges that remain, especially in the workplace . Through personal testimonies and experiences, they highlighted the need for institutional changes and zero-tolerance policies to ensure a safe and equal working environment for all individuals .
The event was coordinated by Anna Apergi Konstantinidis , Special Advisor of Diversity Charter Greece .
The day continued with networking and a common message: Inclusion is not an option. It is the way to the future!
Visit the Diversity Charter page for Greek Businesses, Organizations and Institutions: https://diversity-charter.gr/
