Contributing to the surrounding communities in which we operate forms a cornerstone of our sponsorship platform. One of the many initiatives within Holmen is the sponsorship of the Glada Hudik Theatre – a collaboration that has provided important insights for both parties.
“Our collaboration with the Glada Hudik Theatre is part of our community engagement and diversity work,“ says Therese Rahm, Communications Director at Board and Paper. “They drive an incredibly important work for everyone's right to exist and their project really makes a difference. Through our collaboration, we get to take part in inspirational lectures, performances, films, etc. which helps us in our own work with diversity and inclusion.“
Differences develop society
The ambition of the Glada Hudik Theatre's many different projects is to give people with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to become part of society. Here, the theatre's founder, Pär Johansson, shares his thoughts on this.
“Societies that really accept differences and enable people to live and be as they are will be the societies that really flourish economically. I am convinced that wherever differences are accepted, you will also find the greatest creativity.”
“We need to start defining what diversity means, and that is not just gender or skin colour, but also what kind of person you are. It’s also important that we do not make others feel guilty, but start by looking at ourselves. If we can accept that everyone has equal value and everyone is needed – then we will have made some progress. Next we need to value and make use of our differences.”
How can society move from words to action?
“In the case of our views on diversity and difference, we need to start working on these issues right at school. If you have a teacher from Afghanistan, it’s not so easy to be racist, and if you meet people with disabilities at school, you are likely to be less prejudiced. The business community has an important role, together with schools and authorities, in ensuring that fewer people are excluded. If you do not have a clear role in society it is easier to start behaving non-constructively. In my view, one of society’s most important tasks is to find a place for everyone.”