e&’s Basira project, in collaboration with Dialogue in The Dark,57 was designed to address the lack of awareness of – and inclusivity for – individuals with visual impairments, within the company and the broader community.
Recognising the need to foster empathy and understanding among employees, as well as combat bullying and discrimination, particularly among school-aged children, the project implemented a multifaceted solution. This included delivering an immersive experience, where attendees were given the opportunity to experience the enlightenment of darkness for a full hour, guiding them through everyday tasks and activities while in complete darkness.
As people travel through the Dialogue in the Dark exhibition, a reversal of roles is created where the sighted become blind and the blind become sighted. This hands-on approach was intended to cultivate empathy, raise awareness and inspire employees to consider accessibility and inclusion in their day-to-day work. The project sponsored school children to participate in the immersive experience, with the aim of combating bullying and discrimination from a younger age.
Following the experiential sessions, the project convened focus groups with employees and students to gather insights and ideas for improving inclusivity and accessibility, leading to the implementation of initiatives within the company.
The Basira project has been shown to be a successful model for driving positive change, as evidenced by increased awareness and empathy, and reduced discrimination. The company has committed to expand the project’s efforts internally and in the broader community.
