To celebrate the start of LGBT+ History month, we have raised the Pride flag at Highfield Campus as a symbol of solidarity with our colleagues and students who are part of the LGBT+ community.
LGBT+ History Month is an annual remembrance of LGBT+ rights, activism and civil rights movement. In the UK it coincides with the abolition of Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1986 stated that local authorities “shall not intentionally promote homosexuality or publish material with the intention of promoting homosexuality” or “promote the teaching in any maintained school of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship.” This meant that LGBT+ lives, identities, and relationships were not being represented in media, politics, art, or classrooms.
Professor Jane Falkingham, pictured on the right of the flag, thanked attendees and said:
“I am personally delighted that this is my first event as the new sponsor for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan. It is really important to me that at the University of Southampton that we are committed to fostering an environment of belonging, where everyone feels safe and is free to be themselves, and look forward to working with our entire community to achieve this.”
Andrew Landells, Chair of the Pulse LGBT+ Staff Network, said:
“I am proud that, once again, the University demonstrates its commitment to this event and our community with the excellent selection of events and activities on offer to all members of the University.”
Toolkit:
Have a look at some guidance and resources below on the use of inclusive language and how to support and foster an inclusive community for our LGBT+ colleagues:
- Access our Bitesize Learning
- Have a look at the Libraries LGBT+ Collection
- Guide to using LGBT+ Inclusive Language
- Guide on the use of pronouns
Support available:
- Report and Support, a tool to report any form of bullying, harassment, discrimination, or abuse
- Reach out to our Harassment contacts , a committed team of volunteers who can offer a sympathetic ear.
- Employment Assistance Programme, is a service available to all staff, providing confidential support 24/7
