The LGBT charter : "A collective commitment"
The LGBT charter : "A collective commitment"
Marking the date of October 9, when Nonce Paolini CEO at TF1 signed the LGBT* Charter in the fight against sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination, Arnaud Bosom, the Group’s Human Resources Director, and journalist Christophe Beaugrand took time to respond to our questions on the Group’s commitment to this cause.
What led the Group to formalize its commitment this way? And Christophe, why did you agree to be the ambassador of this cause?
Arnaud Bosom: This commitment is entirely consistent with all the Group’s diversity initiatives over the past 10 years or so. Let me cite three examples: First, the year 2007, the creation of the TF1 Foundation promoting diverse origins (the eighth group of students just joined TF1). The second date is 2010, when we earned the Diversity Label, and we were the first media outlet to be awarded this recognition. And the third date is 2013, which saw the creation of the “Allo discrim’” anti-discrimination support network. Today, we’re the first french media group to sign the LGBT Charter.
Christophe Beaugrand: I find it entirely fitting that a group as powerful as TF1 would be committed to all these issues for the sake of leading by example. The Group’s industry position means it has greater impact than other companies. Being the ambassador of this cause within the company is a natural step forward in my professional path. I think it’s very important for my company to show that this issue isn’t up for debate – there’s no question this is the right thing to do.
Only 7% of companies have implemented initiatives specifically addressing questions of sexual orientation and gender identity; as HRD, why did you decide to do this?
A.B.: I like to say that the HRD is a trailblazer. We therefore must continue to nurture diversity at all levels of the company, from the Human Resources department to on the air. We’re the mirror of what we broadcast in electronic media and display in our print media. Diversity is naturally a factor in creativity, innovation, and performance.
C.B.: I would add that we should find strength in our differences. Diversity is an asset and unquestionably a source of pride for TF1, which cares greatly about representing all components of French society, and our determination certainly translates on the screen.
Is this a difficult or awkward subject to address within a business?
C.B.: At TF1 and LCI, where I worked before coming here, I never had any problems regarding homosexuality; at another television outlet, however, I did have issues – all while having thought that the outlet in question was more open than TF1 about this subject. The Group has never asked me to temper my remarks in this area. I know that, in other media groups, some people have been asked not to disclose their homosexuality. Even though I know that talking about it at the office isn’t the priority, the fact remains that we spend a lot of time there, and to be able to speak freely and naturally is still very important to me. I think the public cares more about a sincere media personality than someone who lies to them about who they really are.
Do you feel that this kind of clear commitment could be another appeal factor for those wanting to apply for jobs with the Group?
A.B.: If TF1’s commitment to the Charter is another positive dimension of our image and reputation, so much the better, especially if it leads to change in the business environment for many other companies. All those who come work with us find that we very much keep pace with the times, that our company walks its talk and puts its values, like fairness and respect, into practice.
*Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender