A lawyer at Bloomberg for over 10 years Amin Kassam is the epitome of intersectionality. Being ethnically Indian, Muslim and gay. As Amin says being muslim and gay is two closets to come out of.

 Amin speaks about the challenges growing up where he never felt he belonged anywhere, and how hard it was to reconcile all aspects of his identify without visible role models. He also thinks “closet” is a terrible metaphor for coming out. He likes the analogy of a curtain that is slowly unveiled (we like this too). 

Amin talks about the obligation for companies to create a safe space for LGBTIQ+ people particularly in Asia. In the West people often come out to their family and friends first and may cover in the workplace to avoid discrimination. In the East, where Amin lives and works it can often be the opposite. People often feel more comfortable to be “out” in their workplaces, but not with their families who they often still live with.

Amin Kassam is a great example of how we can all make a difference and contribute to change in our organisations .

Our key takeaways are:

• How important it is to understand and develop cultural competencies to create inclusion in organisations. Having diverse people bring diversity of thought to build innovation.
• The importance of addressing intersectionality in our Diversity & Inclusion work, and
• The importance of believing in yourself and being confident. The more you are  yourself, the more authentic you are and this leads to better outcomes for you and others. 

During the episode we referred to:
Dr Kimberlé Crenshaw
Edelman trust barometer

At The Culture Ministry we know how challenging and lonely it can be working in Diversity and Inclusion and how progress is often slow.  You might be just getting started in Diversity and Inclusion, or you might be on your way. The Culture Ministry is here to help you with your Diversity and Inclusion progress. Go to www.thecultureministry.com to learn more.

The Culture Ministry exists to create inclusive, accessible environments so that people and businesses can thrive.

Combining a big picture, balanced approach with real-world experience, we help organisations understand their diversity and inclusion shortcomings – and identify practical, measurable actions to move them forward.

Go to https://www.thecultureministry.com/ to learn more

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