In celebration of LGBT+ History Month 2022, we’ve raised the flag at Highfield Campus in act of allyship with our colleagues and students who identify as LGBT+. A symbol of inclusivity, it’s important that we create an inclusive community where everyone can be themselves: this is what it means to be an ally.
Andrew Landells, Chair of the Pulse LGBT+ Staff Network and pictured on the left above, said:
“As Chair of the Pulse Network, it’s amazing that we are able to do things like this. It’s symbolic but it shows how committed the University is to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.”
Professor Mark Spearing, pictured on the right above, also thanked attendees but urged that:
“We’re determined to be inclusive as a University and we appreciate everything staff do here. If things are not right, please do come and talk, challenge, let us know and we will try to make things better.”
Be an ally
From 2017-2021, the number of people identifying as LGBT+ in the UK has increased by more than 33.3%, but a study by the charity Stonewall found that 35% of LGBT+ staff have hidden their orientation at work in fear of discrimination. Last year, a report by UCAS showed that 82% of students say they are confident about being more open about their sexual orientation or gender at university.
For both staff and students, we, as LGBT+ allies, can create a safe and confidential space for those who identify as LGBT+ by offering genuine, visible support, understanding, speaking up, avoiding assumptions, educating ourselves and staying informed.
Tools and resources
Check out the tools and resources below including guidance on the use of inclusive language and use of pronouns to help us create an inclusive community for our LGBT+ staff and students. Even small changes to the way we speak can create huge differences in our community:
- The Libraries LGBT+ Collection
- Guide to Using LGBTQ+ Inclusive Language
- Guide on the use of pronouns
- Reflections on the importance of allyship
Report + Support
- If you witness or are victim to bullying, hate speech or harassment, please use the Report + Support specialist tool for University support.
You can also check the calendar of events for the month on SharePoint here.
