LGBTQ+ History Month – What it means to me
This article will take approximately 3 minutes to read
Published 1 Feb 2024 in Raising Awareness
It’s LGBTQ+ History Month! Hear what the celebration month means to our Inclusion Allies Network colleagues as well as the chance to join an insightful webinar.
Hear from some of our Inclusion Allies for Sexual Orientation, on what LGBTQ+ History month means to them:
Dan Hope – Member Investments – Society Inclusion Ally for Sexual Orientation
Reflecting on the Past, Embracing the Future: LGBTQ+ History Month
The celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month is more than a mere calendar event; it's a homage to the bravery and tenacity of a community that has fought valiantly for acceptance and equality. As someone passionate about queer history, I feel it is important to share tales of unsung heroes whose lives have woven the very fabric of our society. Their sacrifices are etched into the bedrock of today's freedoms, inspiring us to persevere in pursuit of an inclusive future. When we immerse ourselves in the lessons of our shared history, we echo a resounding truth: their struggle was not in vain, and their legacy endures in every step we take towards justice and equality for all.
Distinct but complementary, Pride Month (June) and LGBTQ+ History Month (February) serve as twin beacons of the LGBTQ+ movement—each illuminating a unique aspect of the journey towards societal change. June's Pride Month erupts in a kaleidoscope of colour and exuberance, a jubilant affirmation of how far we've come since the pivotal Stonewall uprising. Contrasting this spirit of celebration, February’s LGBTQ+ History Month invites introspection and education, urging us to look back so we might wisely chart our course forward. This is a time for reflection where learning helps us grow, allowing past successes and lessons to drive our continuous progress.
Acknowledging LGBTQ+ History Month propels Midcounties Coop from passive recognition to dynamic engagement. As a Society, we are poised to weave inclusivity deeply into our organizational ethos. We can cultivate deeper bonds of understanding by initiating education, fostering open dialogue between colleagues, and supporting related causes through raising awareness. This month isn't only about retrospection but about intentional action—a commitment to carrying the mantle of inclusion forward, broadening the shoulders we stand on, and laying down a stronger foundation for generations to come. Together, let’s not only honour our history but actively participate in shaping a future where everyone has the right to belong, contribute, and thrive.
Daniel Berry – Childcare - Society Inclusion Ally for Sexual Orientation
Hello all! I'm Daniel - proud to be one of our inclusion allies for sexual orientation.
When I came out as gay at 19, I felt a mixture of emotions. I felt relief, that I was no longer hiding this part of me that I'd tried to deny and hide for so long but also, regret and shame. It wasn't until I reached my late twenties/early thirties that I realised where some of the feelings of regret and shame came from. Having grown up within a pretty narrow-minded family and local community I felt couldn't fully express who I was.
For perspective, Section 28, the legislative designation of a series of laws across Britain which prohibited the "promotion of homosexuality" by local authorities was still in place effect up until 2003 in England, when I was 13!
When I think of LGBTQ+ history, I think of all the fearless, unapologetic trailblazers that fought for change to create a fairer, safer existence for people.
Icons who began the process for change and equality like Marsha P Johnson, Sylvia Rivera, Frida Kahlo and Ifti Nasim to name just a few. We, as LGBTQ+ people, owe a lot to every single person who persisted against every knock back.
In the 14 years that I have been openly gay, I have seen and can feel change for the better for LGBTQ+ people and I am hopeful for the future.
Thank you for taking the time to read part of my story and what LGBTQ+ history means to me. Let's keep doing what we can for equality everywhere, for everyone!
Danielle Wilkinson – Property - Society Inclusion Ally for Sexual Orientation
LGBTQ+ history month has been around for almost 20 years. This month for me, like many others is a month for love, acceptance, educating and celebration. This month is also a time to reflect on our own experiences and how the actions of society, government and employers impact us. This year in particular LGBTQ members from all over the UK are getting ready to have their voices heard in the upcoming general election, fighting for a ban on conversion therapy and to ensure inclusive education is available for our young generation.
As one of the oldest of gen Z, I can say with first-hand experience that the change the older generation has been ushering in has impacted the way I was raised in society, my school, friends, and family were understanding and inclusive when I was finding my sexual orientation. I did not have to face the hardships the older generation faced, I was not bullied, I was not subjected to hate crimes, the change the older gen set out for me shaped the world I was raised in. I can say this is undeniable proof that the LGBTQ+ community is already accomplishing the change that is necessary for a more inclusive society.
Jonathan Dodson – Food - Society Inclusion Ally for Sexual Orientation
My friend John's husband died a couple of years ago and as we sorted through all his stuff we found hundreds of photos, many of London pride through the decades. It was amazing to see how pride in London began, it was a proper protest March but also mixed with glamour and fun. Several photos stuck out for me, one being of a group called 'rubberstuffers'.
The rubberstuffers were a progressive group of individuals who founded a charity and protested against the lack of information and education about HIV and Aids.
They aimed to educate and support those who most needed to know how it was caught and provide free condoms to those most at risk. Based in London, they visited pubs and clubs, Clapham Common and other places where free condoms and lubricant may not be readily available or free. They filled small boxes with condoms and lube and information of where to get help. They gave these out for free. Their slogan and advert were famous and outrageous at the time 'protective headgear to be worn'!
My friend and his husband were both founding members of the rubberstuffers and I feel immensely proud of what they did and how they fought for equity and education. Both are sadly gone now but their legacy continues with us.
Rubberstuffers condoms were renowned into the early 90's but sadly not much is found now about the wonderful work they achieved.
Listening to my friend talk about their adventures and memories was truly inspiring.
What's the theme for this year?
It’s important to recognise and acknowledge the difficulties LGBTQ+ Staff face when working in the Healthcare industry.
The facts below are some of the many reasons why LGBTQ+ History month is supporting the #UnderTheScope campaign in 2024.
- A report by the CIPD revealed LGBTQ+ staff are more likely to experience conflict and harassment at work than their heterosexual and cisgender colleagues.
- The 2020 NHS staff survey found that 13.7% of gay or lesbian staff reported discrimination from patients or the public.
- 11.8% of gay or lesbian NHS staff said they faced abuse from their colleagues.
- A British Medical Journal article also highlighted that COVID-19 had worsened LGBTQ+ health inequalities.
To learn more about LGBTQ+ History and the celebration in 2024, our inclusion partners, ENEI, are offering a free webinar to all colleagues, on Tuesday 20th Feburary 2024, at 11am. Sign up here.
We hope you enjoyed today’s blog on LGBTQ+ History Month!
A big thank you to our Inclusion Allies for sharing their thoughts and stories.
Interested in joining the Inclusion Allies Network by representing your own Protected Characteristics? please email: DiversityAndInclusion@midcounties.coop