SWASTI calls for joint action to protect women's right, sexual minorities

New Delhi [India], Dec. 9 (ANI): On the occasion of the Human Rights Day, Swasti, a health resource centre, is rallying people to end all discrimination against women, sexual minorities and people living with HIV (PLHIV) at the workplace - by developing a progressive employment policy and plural outlook. Human Rights Day 2016 had the global slogan "Stand-up for someone's rights today" and was celebrated to commemorate the United Nations General Assembly's adoption and proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the widely quoted Article 1 of the Declaration has been the bedrock of human progress. Speaking on the occasion of Human Rights Day, Shiv Kumar, founder and President, Swasti added, "Today, opportunities are numerous for any business entity or organization that wants to promote diversity. Taking steps towards an inclusive, diverse workplace will send a positive message that the company represents and stands for progress, not just for its own shareholders but for society at large and the country." "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood," the health resource stated. However, women and girls, sexual minorities, and PLHIV even today, live marginalized and oppressed lives. They struggle to actualize basic rights experiencing considerably high violence and violation of rights, suffer financial insecurity and are often overlooked during promotions and incentives at the workplace. (ANI)