Pride Cook Islands launched its Pride Pledge programme on Tuesday evening – a values-based commitment that organisations and individuals can take to implement a safe and inclusive culture and environment for LGBQTI+ employees and customers.

The pledge is also aimed at promoting the ideal that all LGBQTI+ people should have the freedom to be safe, healthy and visible.

Several businesses and corporations signed up on the evening to show their support for a safe, inclusive workplace for all.

“We are asking businesses to stand up and be counted; show the community you believe in equality,” said Karla Eggelton, President of Pride Cook Islands.

“LGBTQI+ people are good enough to work for you, and as customers their money is good enough for you to take. 

“If you really want to break down barriers of inequality then it can start right here right now; be counted and truly contribute to the equality movement, become a Pride Cook Islands member, and a Pride Pledge Cook Islands participant.”

Bishop Tutai Pere of the Apostolic Church conducted the opening and closing prayers at the launch.