Rio Tinto Shows Its Support for LGBTQ2+ Employees

On 17 May, to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, Rio Tinto hoisted the rainbow flag—symbol of the LGBTQ2+ community—on all the flagpoles in its facilities as a show of support for its LGBTQ2+ employees. This is not only in keeping with Rio Tinto’s respect for and recognition of the diversity of cultures, communities and viewpoints within the organisation but is also essential to our prosperity worldwide.

In recent years, we have seen a proliferation of concrete initiatives to actively contribute to cultural change. In 2021, the Inclusion, Diversity and Everyday Respect committee was set up at Rio Tinto facilities in the region.

“Through this symbolic gesture, we wish to show our LGBTQ2+ employees that we are committed to providing them with a safe and respectful work environment,” said Patrice Bergeron, Operations Director at Alma Works and sponsor of the Inclusion, Diversity and Everyday Respect regional committee. “We also want to affirm that inclusion and diversity are priorities for Rio Tinto.”

Rio Tinto stands out for its respectful, inclusive and diverse work environments; diversity and inclusion are seen as drivers of development and as essential in attracting and retaining a skilled, talented workforce.

“For me, this day opens the door to discussions with my colleagues and helps to address certain taboos,” said Marie-Christine Guimond, Operator at Alma Works, member of the Inclusion, Diversity and Everyday Respect committee and a proud member of the LGBTQ2+ community. “It’s an opportunity to educate people about gender, attraction and stereotypes in the LGBTQ2+ community. Rio Tinto’s gesture—a first—is symbolic and shows that we are not afraid to support diversity in all its forms. This inspiring initiative raises awareness and cultivates open-mindedness—values that are important to me.”

In 2021, the Inclusion, Diversity and Everyday Respect committee was set up at Rio Tinto facilities in the region.