VML India and Durex foster ‘Rainbow Classrooms’ for gender identity conversations

Delhi: VML has conceptualised a  film, ‘Rainbow Classrooms', for Durex. 

VML’s approach aims to create a safe  space for students in India to express their feelings and address gender identity issues that  are often overlooked due to the lack of sex education in Indian schools. 

VML and Durex worked with students, teachers, school body heads and government officials to create a course specifically focused on educating the educators on having these difficult  conversations.  

 Those educators who completed the course were given a symbol outside their classroom  - a rainbow door. Taking inspiration from the Pride Flag, the painted door serves as a symbol  to students that they are entering a safe space where they can express themselves freely  without fear of judgement or ridicule.  

Rohan Kumar, Group Creative Director, VML India, said, “The first step to getting students  to talk about gender issues was to create a safe space. The next was to create a symbol.  Once we identified teachers as the ambassadors for this initiative, everything fell into place  quickly post that. The rainbow doors serve as powerful symbols of safety and inclusivity.  It’s a privilege for us at VML to collaborate with Durex on this initiative and support  educational institutions to promote belonging for all.”  

Ravi Bhatnagar, Director of External Affairs and Partnerships, SOA, Reckitt, highlighted  Reckitt's commitment, "At Reckitt, we are dedicated to promoting inclusivity and providing  continuous support to the communities we serve. The Rainbow Classrooms initiative is a  testament to our ongoing efforts to create safe and supportive environments for students,  not just during Pride Month but throughout the entire year. By fostering acceptance and  understanding, we are empowering the next generation to embrace their identities and  contribute to a more inclusive society."