Wear it Purple Day is an important day for young people from the Pride community and their allies, promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
Observed annually on the last Friday in August, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of creating supportive environments where young people can be their authentic selves without fear of discrimination.
In the retail sector, which plays a significant role in providing first job opportunities for many young Australians, Wear It Purple Day holds particular significance.
Retail is not just a significant industry in Australia; it’s also a frontline sector where many young Australians embark on their professional journeys. For many, their first exposure to a working environment comes through retail positions, making it crucial that these spaces are welcoming and affirming.
That’s why the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and many of our members are proud to support Wear It Purple Day and champion inclusivity within the sector.
The retail sector’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected across our industry, 19 brands have signed up to our position Statement for LGBTQIA+ people. Many retailers also support Wear it Purple Day, marking the day with educational events, store institutions, and encouraging staff to wear it purple.
A key element in advancing these efforts is the work of the InterRetail group. This initiative, chaired by Alex Zachariah from Woolworths Group, is a collaborative effort involving staff from various retailers. Australia Post, Coles, IKEA Australia, Optus, and Woolworths are some participating retailers who come together to support the LGBTQIA+ community by sharing ideas, best practices, and providing mutual support.
Through this group, retailers can pool their knowledge and ideas to implement effective strategies for inclusivity, ensuring that the sector’s commitment to these values is both practical and impactful.
The InterRetail group plays a vital role in driving positive change across the industry. By coming together to address common challenges and celebrate successes, its members contribute to creating a retail environment where inclusivity is not just a policy but a fundamental aspect of the workplace culture.
The group’s efforts help to ensure that the retail sector remains a supportive space for all employees, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, and that young Australians entering the workforce experience a welcoming and respectful environment.
As a representative of the retail industry, the ARA is dedicated to championing these initiatives and advocating for the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. Our role extends beyond mere participation in Wear It Purple Day; we are proud to actively promote and support ongoing efforts to enhance inclusivity within the sector.
The ARA’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in our advocacy work and our support for various initiatives that promote LGBTQIA+ rights and wellbeing. By leveraging our position, we aim to influence positive change and encourage retailers to adopt inclusive practices that support all employees and customers.
You can find the ARA Position Statement for equality for LGBTQIA+ people here
