In June 2024, FNPF-owned IHG Hotels in Fiji, which includes InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Grand Pacific Hotel Suva, and Holiday Inn Suva, proudly celebrated the importance of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) with Pride Month and a partnership with the Trans Affirmative Action Guild (TAAG). These celebrations aimed to raise the visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community in the workplace and promote a culture of inclusivity.
IHG Hotels Fiji Champion Inclusivity with TAAG
LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, held globally every June, commemorates the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall riots and serves as a time to honor and support the LGBTQIA+ community. The DE&I Champions at each of the FNPF-owned IHG Fiji hotels have been diligently working with the management teams to create a more inclusive workplace and foster a culture of acceptance and support.
To mark Pride Month, the DE&I Committee facilitated conversations about the significance of Pride by prominently displaying the “Pride Flag” at all three hotels. This flag serves as a powerful symbol of inclusivity and wholeheartedness in the workplace. The afternoon tea events not only created awareness but also opened opportunities for meaningful dialogue among guests and colleagues.
Lachlan Walker, Portfolio General Manager – IHG Hotels & Resorts, FNPF Owned Hotels, said, “At IHG Hotels & Resorts, we believe in the spirit of True Hospitality for Good. Inclusion means creating a work culture that truly values a diversity of backgrounds and provides all colleagues with a positive and welcoming environment in which they can thrive. We have a group of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Champions, composed of a diverse group of colleagues from all levels, who are part of a committee driving the inclusion agenda across our portfolio of hotels.”
In addition to these celebrations, FNPF-owned IHG Hotels & Resorts in Fiji proudly announced a landmark partnership with the Trans Affirmative Action Guild (TAAG). This initiative positions IHG as the first hospitality brand in Fiji to embrace such a transformative approach, reinforcing its commitment to being the employer of choice in the region. The MOU between IHG Hotels & Resorts Fiji and TAAG outlines roles and responsibilities for workforce training and support activities. This partnership will enhance IHG colleagues’ understanding of diverse SOGIESC individuals (not limited to) and underrepresented groups through workshops and training while providing TAAG with venue access and sponsorship support.
Ratu Eroni Ledua Dina, Co-Foundress & Executive Director of TAAG, said, “We are elated to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts in Fiji. This collaboration extends our advocacy and training efforts, making a significant impact on the hospitality industry in Fiji. Together, we are pioneering a path towards inclusivity and equality.”
Both FNPF-owned IHG Hotels & Resorts Fiji and TAAG share the goal of promoting human rights and inclusivity. With hotels located throughout Fiji’s main island and TAAG advocating for the rights of queer and trans-Fijians, this partnership allows for collectively reaching and supporting target audiences to achieve shared objectives.
FURTHER READING: For those interested in exploring this topic further, additional resources and in-depth materials are provided below when available; otherwise, no further reading is included at this time.:
REFERENCES: This guide is based on over a decade of research and firsthand experience living in Fiji. It incorporates extensive knowledge gained through long-term residence and ongoing engagement with the region. Images and text have been sourced from official references, which are acknowledged below, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.