Whiria te Tāngata formally launched

This morning, members of Whiria te Tāngata | Rainbow Network came together with people from around Fire and Emergency in Wellington to celebrate the official launch of the network.

Whiria te Tāngata, which means ‘weave people together’ was founded in 2020, by both paid and volunteer personnel who wanted to increase the visibility, inclusion and participation of people with diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics in Fire and Emergency.  

The launch was held at Te Auaha, a rainbow centric venue in Wellington CBD. Members of the ELT, wider management , the network, allies and the launch project team were there. The event opened with a history of the network, and the story of how the network was named.

Chief Executive Kerry Gregory spoke and provided his own story about learning more about the importance of pronouns. It was really special to hear this honest story and reminded all of us that we are on different learning journeys when it comes to inclusion and diversity. 

The network is open to all personnel who have an interest and passion for inclusion and diversity.

To help everyone on their journeys, a new e-learning module(external link) was launched on Learning Station. Titled Including the Rainbow Communities at Fire and Emergency New Zealand(external link), this e-learning module will assist personnel in understanding the important of Rainbow communities, how to use inclusive language, how gender and sex differiate, and where to go for more information. Personnel who complete the module can then either request a rainbow lanyard or a pin to wear proudly everyday.  

Find out more information about the network here: Whiria te Tāngata – Rainbow Network | The Portal (fireandemergency.nz)(external link)