Stan Kaatee supports Voices of Strength, Faces of Pride!

Director-General of SZW highlights the importance of visibility and inclusion

Stan Kaatee, Director-General at the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment, has expressed strong support for Voices of Strength, Faces of Pride, the new campaign by Tim Küsters that puts ambassadors and personal stories at the forefront of the movement for an inclusive society.

According to Kaatee, everyone deserves a workplace where they can truly be themselves—not just where diversity is accepted, but where differences are genuinely valued. “At Social Affairs and Employment, we work every day toward an inclusive labour market, where opportunities are distributed fairly and where differences contribute to strength and innovation,” Kaatee said. “Diversity makes us stronger.”

Visibility as a driver of change

The Voices of Strength, Faces of Pride campaign shows how powerful it can be when people dare to share their stories. Kaatee emphasizes that visibility is not a goal in itself, but a tool:

“When ambassadors are visible, they inspire others to raise their voices as well. Visibility accelerates change — in the workplace, in policy, and in society.”

With these words, he highlights the importance of positive role models, especially in spaces where diversity is not yet the norm.

Inclusion also means caring for one another

Kaatee also connects inclusion to proper support for all employees. Arrangements such as parental leave must be accessible to everyone, “regardless of who you are or whom you love.” According to him, inclusion is about more than representation; it is also about ensuring people have the space to care for one another.

Building a future where everyone feels seen

The Director-General calls for continuous encouragement of the positive forces behind diversity:“We must keep listening, keep learning, and make space for everyone’s talent.”

He concludes his message with a strong call for collective effort:

“Let’s build a future together in which everyone—regardless of background, gender, or identity—feels seen and supported. Because only together can we truly create an inclusive society.”

With this public endorsement, Kaatee sends a clear signal: the movement toward an open, diverse, and fair society doesn’t happen automatically, but grows stronger when leaders speak up — exactly what Voices of Strength, Faces of Pride stands for.

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