Organizational Culture and Diversity: Nonviolent Communication for the Inclusion of LGBTQIAPN+ People in Events at Public Higher Education Institutions in Maranhão

Abstract

This study discusses the importance of inclusive communication and Nonviolent Communication (NVC) in promoting the inclusion of the LGBTQIAPN+ population in academic events held at Public Higher Education Institutions in Maranhão, Brazil. It is based on the understanding that academic events constitute strategic spaces for institutional communication, social interaction, and meaning-making, with the potential both to strengthen practices of inclusion and belonging and to reproduce symbolic inequalities and exclusionary processes. The article reflects on the challenges related to promoting diversity in academic events, considering aspects such as language, institutional welcoming practices, respect for gender identities and sexual orientations, as well as the need to build more equitable and respectful environments. Methodologically, this is a qualitative study grounded in bibliographic and documentary review on public communication, organizational culture, sexual and gender diversity, academic events, and Nonviolent Communication. As a contribution, the study presents theoretical and practical elements to support the development of a guiding framework aimed at promoting inclusive communication practices in academic events, aligned with the principles of equity, human rights, and the appreciation of diversity.