Pacific Recycling Foundation is calling for urgent, inter sectional responses to the marginalization faced by LGBTQI+ individuals working in the waste management space and beyond, highlighting that they are among the most vulnerable to climate change impacts, displacement, and systemic exclusion.
Founder of PRF, Amitesh Deo says pride month is more than a celebration it is a time to stand up for those whose dignity, safety and rights remain under constant threat.
He says there is a global regression in the space of activism and human rights, including those of LGBTQI+ communities, which has resulted in restrictions on fundamental freedoms and those who fight for human rights are being pressured to justify their work, even as the most marginalized continue to suffer.
Deo says many individuals working in the waste management space, whether formal or informal, including the Collection Pillars of Recycling are part of the LGBTQI+ community and these workers face compounded stigma.
Deo says waste work already carries a heavy social stigma and some brands and corporates shy away from supporting these workers because they think it tarnishes their image.
He adds if you add being LGBTQI+ on top of that, the exclusion is even more extreme and they need to confront these uncomfortable truths if they want real change.
PRF stresses that LGBTQI+ communities are on the frontlines of climate vulnerability in Fiji and the Pacific, with a higher risk of displacement, eviction, and limited access to resources during disasters.
Deo further says climate justice and human rights are inseparable and people cannot plan for resilience while ignoring the most vulnerable.
PRF is also urging rights-based organisations, civil society movements, and community leaders in this space to make use of the current enabling environment for freedom of speech to speak up in support of LGBTQI+ communities.
