Dr. Norathep Sriprasit (left) of Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital, and Richard Kua, brand general manager of Kiehl’s Thailand, spoke passionately on the panel titled “What do Allies Think?” at the Bangkok Post Pride Every Day forum, hosted on Wednesday at Lido Connect Hall in the iconic Siam Square. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)
“Amplifying the voices of our LGBTQ+ colleagues creates a vibrant and inclusive working atmosphere that benefits employees not just financially, but also enriches their quality of life,” stated Richard Kua, brand general manager of Kiehl’s Thailand. He elaborated these points during his engaging presentation at the forum.
Kiehl’s, a global skincare and beauty enterprise, operates in numerous countries worldwide, many of which have already legalized same-sex marriage. Mr. Kua passionately emphasized that Kiehl’s offers comprehensive benefits to all employees, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. This commitment extends to their partners, children, including adopted children, and encompasses insurance coverage. “We are more open about it because we spend eight to 10 hours of our daily life at work,” he noted.
“You shouldn’t suffer in silence. Allowing everyone to express themselves openly is crucial. We have fostered an environment where employees can freely express their sexual orientation,” added Mr. Kua, highlighting the company’s inclusive culture.
The LGBTQ+ community has seen growing acceptance and recognition in society, particularly within professional settings. Mr. Kua pointed out that recognizing LGBTQ+ individuals for their professional talents allows them to excel in their careers while their fundamental rights are being increasingly respected and protected by law.
Mr. Kua applauded Thailand’s recent milestone in legalizing same-sex marriage. To support this progressive step, Kiehl’s has introduced the “Kiehl’s Open Door” project, devised to assist underprivileged LGBTQ+ youth. This initiative provides first-time employment opportunities for around 40 to 60 young individuals, rotating them through various departments like skincare and makeup. The aim is to equip them with diverse skill sets, ensuring they thrive without fear of discrimination. “Beauty doesn’t harbor discrimination,” Mr. Kua aptly stated.
Originating from New York City over 115 years ago, Kiehl’s has established itself as a leading brand in the beauty industry. The company collaborates with suppliers who share its core values—that beauty transcends all differences and eschews discrimination, according to Mr. Kua.
Dr. Norathep Sriprasit of Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital also shared significant insights at the forum. He mentioned that a substantial portion of his LGBTQ+ patients prefer to have consultations conducted confidentially. In response, all hospital staff undergo rigorous training to ensure that consultations can be held privately and discreetly.
Dr. Norathep proudly acknowledged the benefits brought about by Thailand’s legalisation of same-sex marriage. The new legislation allows LGBTQ+ couples to make crucial decisions regarding their partner’s medical treatments in emergencies. “Previously, couples were unable [legally] to make any decisions [on their partner’s behalf] in urgent medical situations due to legal restrictions,” he explained.
Now, with the same-sex marriage law in place, such decisions are legally binding, enhancing health security for LGBTQ+ individuals. Dr. Norathep regards this legal step as a pivotal move towards enshrining basic human rights for the LGBTQ+ group. He also expressed hope that future legislation would further support LGBTQ+ families, perhaps through the legalization of surrogacy, enabling couples to have and raise their own children.
It’s refreshing to see companies like Kiehl’s leading the way for LGBTQ+ rights in the workplace. This should be a standard everywhere.
I agree, but it also highlights how far other companies still need to go. Many places don’t even offer basic protections.
Totally, my workplace doesn’t even acknowledge Pride Month. It’s like being back in the 1950s.
And that makes Kiehl’s even more remarkable. They’re setting an example that’s hard to ignore.
Seeing Thailand legalize same-sex marriage is huge, but how effective do you think their implementation will be?
Good question. Legislation is one thing, real cultural change is another. It’ll take time.
Absolutely, laws can only do so much. Social attitudes have to evolve too.
I never really got why LGBTQ+ people need ‘special’ rights. Shouldn’t human rights be enough?
It’s not about special rights, it’s about equal rights. Historically, LGBTQ+ people have been marginalized.
Exactly! And laws are a way to correct longstanding injustices.
I see your point, but it still feels like a double standard sometimes.
Equal rights are human rights. There’s no such thing as ‘special’ rights for LGBTQ+ people.
The ‘Kiehl’s Open Door’ project sounds amazing! Giving opportunities to underprivileged LGBTQ+ youth is a game changer.
What about heterosexual underprivileged youth? They need opportunities too.
Heterosexual youth already have more opportunities. This project levels the playing field a bit.
So true! It’s about providing equitable opportunities for everyone.
Fair enough, but I hope such initiatives don’t end up excluding others in the long run.
The training for hospital staff by Dr. Norathep is crucial. Medical confidentiality is so important for LGBTQ+ individuals.
I wish more hospitals followed this example. Discrimination in healthcare can have life-threatening consequences.
Why aren’t these measures already the norm? All patients deserve respectful and confidential care.
Sadly, healthcare settings often reflect the broader society’s prejudices. Training is a step towards change.
Hopefully, more hospitals will adopt these measures soon.
Yeah, one can only hope. Change is slow, but at least it’s happening.
I find it interesting how companies use their platforms to push for social change nowadays.
Corporate responsibility has evolved. Consumers expect more from brands they support.
True, but sometimes it feels more like a marketing gimmick than genuine intent.
You can’t deny the impact, though. Even if it’s partly for marketing, it still pushes societal norms forward.
It’s a big deal that LGBTQ+ couples can now make medical decisions for each other. This law is saving lives.
About time! Denying people this right was always sheer cruelty.
As expected, Thailand’s legalization of same-sex marriage is underlining the importance of equality in healthcare.