In a notable move towards fostering a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment, the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) has launched the ‘Beyond Labels: Building a Stigma-Free Workplace’ initiative.

In collaboration with PEPFAR, CDC, UNAIDS, and JN+, JMEA aims to implement educational programmes addressing HIV awareness, transmission understanding, and prevention methods among JMEA employees and member companies.

Executive director of the JMEA, Kamesha Blake, emphasised the importance of the project. “This initiative transcends the specific issues related to HIV-related stigma and discrimination. It embraces an inclusive approach, recognizing that stigma, whether linked to HIV, mental health, race, gender, sexual orientation, or any other factor, significantly undermines individual well-being, organizational productivity, and societal cohesion,” she said.

The project will include a series of workshops tailored for senior management, including human resource representatives and employees. It will also have a strong focus on capacity-building strategies to combat stigma and discrimination, legal aspects, and human rights considerations associated with the condition in the workplace, crafting comprehensive health policies, and dispelling common myths and misconceptions.

President of the JMEA, Sydney Thwaites, said: “The core mandate at the JMEA is focused on helping to advocate for and advance a thriving manufacturing and export-led economy, and such results is unattainable without a thriving workforce. Hence, our mandate encompasses not only the formulation of policies and interventions aimed at enhancing operational efficiency but also extends to initiatives that prioritize the mental and physical well-being of our workforce.”

Thwaites outlined that it was through research that the JMEA identified the prevalence of HIV-related stigma and discrimination within workplaces which, over time, has led to the fuelling of a culture where individuals are reluctant to seek medical care and undergo relevant testing, most notably males.

He stated: “While there is encouraging news that 93 per cent of Jamaicans living with the condition are aware of their status, a concerning statistic emerges that only 54 per cent of them are receiving the necessary treatment, with a greater number of females accessing treatment than males. Therefore, as the leading industry association, catering to the manufacturing and export community, supporting over 600 member companies which employ a workforce exceeding 84,300 individuals; it is only fitting that we at the JMEA take up the charge to foster an initiative that will help to create a paradigm shift within the workplace.”

UNAIDS multi-country director, Caribbean, Dr Richard Amenyah, commended the JMEA’s invitation to address workplace stigma and discrimination, stating: “UNAIDS’ call to action is ‘To protect everyone’s health to protect everyone’s rights.’ Therefore, we are fully aligned with JMEA because by going ‘Beyond Labels,’ we can create stigma-free workplaces and contribute to ending AIDS as a public health threat.”

Nick Perry, United States ambassador to Jamaica, lauded the JMEA for setting the goal to end HIV-related stigma and discrimination in the workplace in Jamaica. He also acknowledged the association’s efforts to reduce unnecessary suffering and loss of productivity for the nation. He said the United States “looks forward to seeing Jamaica progress towards the elimination of all forms of HIV-related stigma and discrimination.

Perry highlighted the United States’ commitment to (collaboratively) take on this journey.