Respect Magazine - June 2023

WELCOME!

Hello and welcome to the June issue of our Respect magazine.

Well, what can I say since our last edition. A lot has happened both within the network and in the wider LGBTQ+ community. We’ve had the wonderful Laith Jaafar join us as a new Co-Chair, replacing Claudia who’s left a lasting legacy on the network. We want to wish Claudia all the best in their future endeavours. Laith has been with us a few months now and is already making waves. You’ll get to hear more from him in the magazine.

June can only mean one thing, it’s Pride Month!! We love this time of year, but what makes this one extra special is that it’s Respect’s 15th birthday. Can you believe that we ’ve been around that long? We can’t! We’ve got lots happening throughout the month, which you can get involved in, so keep an eye on our Respect LGBTQ+ Yammer page for more information.

Anyway, back to the magazine. In this edition, we’re shining a spotlight on another Coop network, this time we caught up with Ash Akhtar, Co-Chair of Rise. We also talk about the legislation that’s sweeping the USA, banning drag performers, which we’ re really concerned about. Of course we have our staple media review, which provides some recommendations on the LGBTQ+ content we’re currently obsessed with. In honour of our 15th Birthday we’re also recognising 15 icons who’ve truly made a difference within our community.

Anyway, that’s enough from me. I really hope you enjoy this edition of the magazine. If you ’d like to feature in a future edition why not reach out to us at RespectLGBT@coop.co.uk.

- Lindsay Robinson

EBy Rebecca Smith

Section 28 Repealed

2023 marks 20 years since Section 28 was repealed. The law, which was enforced under the Local Government Act 1988 and was brought forward by Thatcher’s government, banned local authorities and schools from ‘promoting homosexuality’.

Following mass protests from LGBTQ+ campaigners and activists, Section 28 was finally repealed on 21 June 2001 in Scotland and on 18 November 2003 in the rest of the UK. Though the legislation is no longer in place, the shadow of this legislation can still be felt by many from the community.

By Haydn Rothwell

On 7th February 2000, the first attempted legislation to repeal Section 28 was introduced by the Labour Government as part of the Local Government Act 2000, but was defeated. In Scottish Parliament, the repeal process was more successful where various groups campaigned against the repeal. Section 28 was successfully repealed as part of the Ethical Standards in Public Life etc. (Scotland) Act 2000 on 21 June 2000 with a majority vote.

Sadly, Section 28 deprived generations of LGBTQ+ pupils the chance of seeing people like themselves in books, plays and films their schools could stock or show. Teachers weren’t allowed to teach about same-sex relationships; anyone who broke the law could face disciplinary action.

Section 28 became law on 24 May 1988. Many protests were staged, including a group of lesbians that abseiled into the House of Lords in protest, making national news broadcasts! The legislation caused 20,000 Mancunians to take to their city’s streets to march against it and prompted Sir Ian McKellen to come out publicly as gay. Section 28 was introduced following a difficult period for the LGBTQ+ community in the UK. There had been some progress, but the outbreak of HIV/AIDS led to the widespread demonisation of gay and bisexual men in the 1980s.

Despite successive defeats in the House of Lords of attempts to repeal Section 28 in England and Wales, the Labour government passed legislation to repeal this section as part of the Local Government Act 2003 by a vote of MPs. This passed the Lords and received Royal Assent on18 September 2003 and the repeal became effective on 18 November 2003. David Cameron issued an apology for the harm ithad done in 2009.

In spite of this, its implications are still felt far and wide and teaching around LGBTQ+ issues remain taboo in many schools.

By Julia Lietzau

Meet Our Co-Chair

Laith Jaafar (he/him) works as a Case Manager within our Legal & Life Planning business and joined Respect late last year as one of our lovely Co-Chairs. Along with Marc Kurucz, their role is to steer the network, so that we’ re successful in achieving our vision of creating a safer workplace for colleagues regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or trans status. We caught up with Laith to learn more about who he is and why he joined Respect…

Laith Jaafar

So Laith, tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m a very enthusiastic and optimistic and I love to look on the brighter side of life. Those I’ ve worked with know that I get really excited about collaboration, community action, and above all making a difference in people’s lives. Despite the adversity I’ve experienced myself, I’ve realised how important it is to be grateful for the life I have and to dedicate it to helping others. Whether it’ s cooking for my family, having a heart-to-heart, or helping others build confidence and realise their potential, if it makes others smile that’s what motivates me to keep going.

What makes you laugh the most?

I think that minions are absolutely hilarious. They are the best characters that have ever been created. Send me a GIF of a minion and it’ll make my day.

How do you spend your free time?

When I have free time, I love creating restaurantlike experiences at home for my family. I put my heart and soul into planning it. I read cooking and baking books, to help develop my skills. I’ve also completed a few long-distance runs and have three more 10K runs coming up, so please wish me luck.

By Lindsay Robinson

What’s your coming out story? How did your family and friends react?

My story was unfortunate and difficult, but I still think it’s important to share to raise awareness. After years of dealing with the fear of accepting who I am whilst being raised in an Islamic household, I finally told my mother that I was gay. Well, I didn’t really tell her. I asked if I were to confess something to her what would be the worst thing be, which just so happened to be that.

When my father was told, he told me I was no longer his son, and I was given an hour to leave. I packed my belongings, handed in my house key, and went straight to my best friend’s house across the street. I dropped all my bags and burst into tears on her doorstep. I didn’t need to say anything, as she knew exactly what happened. Her family supported me until I went to university in Sheffield.

It was a new beginning for me, so I made the most of it. I found friends for life and met my incredible partner who I’m living happily with now. Since processing what happened, I’ ve found forgiveness for what my parents did. I’ m living how I want, so there’s no need to hold any resentment. Recently, my mother attended my graduation and even met my partner. It was the best day ofmy life!

What is something interesting about you that people would never guess just by looking at you?

Who’s the most important person in your life and why?

People are often surprised that I can speak Arabic or that my name in Arabic means lion cub. My partner, Sean. He’s the kindest, most patient and compassionate person I know. He’s taught me how important it is to look after my wellbeing and has supported me through the not so good times. He’s also extremely driven and passionate about his work which fuels my passion for continuing to make a difference. I’ll always be grateful for his calm, measured, and warm approach to life.

What are you most passionate about?

At university I learnt about the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which states that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”. It fuelled my passion for tackling social injustice as I felt that people weren’t being treated fairly. If we were born free and equal in dignity and rights, surely the LGBTQ+ community wouldn’t have to struggle. The reality is we live in a heteronormative world, which is improving, but there’s still a long way to go. All we want is to live without fear of discrimination, love who we want, and to access the same rights as heterosexual people.

What does being the Respect Co-chair mean to you? What are you going to bring to the role?

It means being a champion of LGBTQ+ voices. I'm a big believer in using your voice to promote equality and to shed light on the stories of people that are often brushed aside. It’s my firm belief that this role is responsible for ensuring that colleague representation is at the forefront of our agenda, that we spread awareness of LGBTQ+ issues, and that our colleagues receive the support they need.

Whilst we are all great colleagues at the Co-op, it’s still important to encourage more inclusivity and continue tohold those accountable for lack of progress in certain areas. As a Co-Chair, I’ll be fair and measured in my actions to ensure that all

parties are equally represented. It’s my firm belief that everyone has a right to use their voice and be heard. I’ll ensure that the network maintains an open dialogue to steer the strategic direction of our agenda. Finally, we do our best work when we ’re having fun. I’d love to continue the incredible momentum the network has created in bringing us together.

What challenges or goals do you aim to achieve whilst working for the network?

Firstly, I hope to increase our reach and representation. I think it’s important that as a colleague network, we represent all our community. I want to increase our membership and the representation of different business areas in both Co-op and Nisa. Secondly, I’d like to continue building our brand and communication strategy with the incredible talent we already have within the steering committee. They’ve achieved so much already and I’m excited to bring new ideas to build our social media presence. Finally, it’d be great to host more in-person events and meet our LGBTQ+ colleagues.

What advice would you give someone who may be struggling to come to terms with who they are?

Coming to terms with who you are can be a difficult and mentally draining. First, I’d say find ways to relax your mind. Discover what brings you joy and focus on that. The more you learn about yourself and what makes you happy, the easier it’ll be to come to terms with yourself. Secondly, do your research. Thankfully, information about sexuality and identity is more available now. Researching might help you understand how you identify. Finally, when you’re ready to speak to someone, do it. I’ve learnt that bottling your thoughts and feelings can cause you to struggle because you deal with them alone. As soon as you let someone in that you trust, it’ll take the weight off. One thing to bear in mind is never be influenced by others, develop your self-esteem and be confident and proud of how you feel. Only thenwill you know what’s right foryou.

Thank you Laith and welcome! We’re all looking forward to getting to work with you and seeing what you achieve with us.

GENDER RECOGNITION REFORM BILL

By Sean Walsh

The Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill was created to make it easier for transgender individuals to obtain a gender recognition certificate (GRC) by removing the necessity of a diagnosis of gender dysphoria and lowering the minimum age for applicants from 18 to 16. According to the Scottish Government website, "They [the applicants] will no longer need to provide medical reports or evidence. Applicants will be required to live in their acquired gender for a minimum of three months, with a reflection period of a further three months before a certificate is granted.

The Gender Reform Bill had majority cross-party support in the Scottish Parliament, with 86 votes in favour and 39 against.

The SNP's Ash Regan quit the government in protest of the Bill, and nine other SNP MSPs either abstained or voted against it during stage one of the Bill. MP Joanna Cherry, who had longstanding opposition to the process of gender recognition reform, represents Scotland in the House of Commons. (MSPs represent in the devolved Scottish Parliament, MPs represent Scotland in the House ofCommons).

Most Conservative MSPs opposed the Bill, with exceptions being Jamie Greene and Dr Sandesh

Gulhane. Scottish Labour was largely in favour, but some MSPs were opposed. Scottish Green and Liberal Democrat Party MSPs supported the new law.

Rishi Sunak then declared that he would be invoking Section 35 of the Scotland Act 1998, which allows the UK Government to block a Bill from being presented for Royal Assent, required for the Bill to become law.

The reason that was given for this was that the UK Government believed that the Bill would be ‘incompatible’ with the rest of the UK’s legislation and would be detrimental to the law of the land.

The response from Holyrood – Scottish Parliament – was swift and angry. The Social Justice Secretary, Shona Robison, said the move to block the Bill has made for a dark day for trans rights. First Minister at the time Nicola Sturgeon said on Twitter “This is a full-frontal attack on our democratically elected Scottish Parliament and its ability to make its own decisions on devolved matters.”

Chief executive of Stonewall, Nancy Kelley, said in a statement: “This is the nuclear option. It is the only time that Section 35 of the Scotland Act has been used since 1998, in an unprecedented move which significantly undermines the devolution settlement and will unlock constitutional and diplomatic strife. Adding: “It is a matter of grave and profound regret that the Prime Minister has allowed trans people’s lives to be used as a political football. This is not governing with compassion. These are not the actions of a government that can stand on the international stage as a credible defender of LGBTQ+ rights. We hope that the legal process concludes swiftly and that governments of the UK focus their attention on positive strategies that support LGBTQ+ communities to thrive.”

consideration and debate. The Bill covers matters that are devolved to the Scottish Parliament and its consequences were considered by MSPs in detail. For the UK Government to seek to block the Scottish democratic process in this way, simply because they disagree with the welcome decision the Scottish Parliament has made to improve trans people’s lives, is unacceptable. We fully expect the Scottish Government to challenge this in the courts.”

Trans equality group Scottish Trans also condemned the UK Government’s decision. Manager Vic Valentine said: “The Bill as passed would introduce a simpler and fairer way for trans men and women to be legally recognised as who they truly are, allowing them to live with the dignity we all deserve That followed years of consultation and lengthy Parliamentary

government has a fight on its hands from all sides. This will play out for some time to come, as the Scottish Parliament could sue the current UK administration in what would likely be a lengthy court battle. It is time that trans rights should not be the ‘hot button’ issue but should just be ‘rights’ like everyone else. We are in 2023 we should not be using people for political advantage.

MEDIA REVIEW

Pop the kettle on and grab your snacks, Respect content creator and member Sean has bravely volunteered to hunt down some entertainment to share, review, and recommend!

By Sean Walsh

Mae Martin: Sap – Netflix

‘Sap’ marks Mae Martin’s first comedy special, although they have been writing and performing comedy for many years. ‘Sap’ is a true tour-deforce, offering laugh out loud comedy as well as thoughtful and heartfelt messages. Martin talks about being trans/non-binary and how the experience was for them being young but also, as with life, it is a part that makes up the whole.

It is a great show and filled with so many wholebody laughs that I was in tears! The opening credits are funny in themselves and its only with watching the show you understand them - I thought they had lost their minds!

The special touches on growing up in Canada with a truly magical sounding father, ‘life’ during the pandemic and even snow-globes, it is guaranteed tohave youcackling throughout!

I wholeheartedly recommend this show to anyone who enjoys comedy. I have been watching Mae on Taskmaster, which perfectly coordinated with ‘Sap’ s’ release. I can honestly say I am thrilled I have watched it and will be watching it many more times I can assure you!

Your Name Engraved Herein (刻在你心底的名 字) - Netflix

This 2020 film starring queer actor Edward Chen is set in 1987 Taiwan in an all-boys school. JiaHan and Birdy become friends in a new Taiwan –martial law is lifted after decades and there are many changes in society. Their blossoming friendship becomes stronger as they try to understand the feelings they have for each other, whilst struggling against the rampant homophobia throughout the country, as well as the religious pressures they feel from their beloved teacher-priest.

Things progress on a trip to Taipei to pay respects to the deceased leader Chiang Chingkuo, when Birdy kisses Jia-Han and later they discuss what their life would be like together. As society changes, so does their school and girls are now brought in. Birdy gets a girlfriend –BanBan - which makes Jia-Han incredibly jealous. The result of all this leads to a breakdown of the friendship for many years. We then meet up with Jia-Han decades later at a reunion, and we find out what happened to him, Birdy and BanBan and the teacher-priest.

‘Your Name Engraved Herein’ is one of the best films I have seen for a long time. It is beautifully written and very well-acted. There are a lot of emotional twists and turns that keep you guessing, and it shows the struggles that people deal with when dealing with religion, homophobia and how repression of your true nature can affect more than just yourself.

Wranglestone – Darren Charlton

In a post-apocalyptic America, survivors live in national parks, on lakes and cliff faces to keep safe from the Dead. However, when winter comes and the lake freezes, there's nothing to stop them.

Peter is a kind and gentle soul who has never left Wranglestone, the group of little islands of that he calls home. One day a stranger comes ashore, and he puts the whole community in danger. In an attempt to toughen him up against the outside world, Peter is forced to leave the islands for the first time. With the help of Cooper, the boy he's always watched from afar, Peter herds the Dead away from the shores of the lake before it freezes over.

Wranglestone is a love story between two young men in a world where you would imagine love is the last thing on people’s minds. But love prevails, no matter what the circumstances, even in the darkest of times. Plus, zombies.

I did not realise this was a YA (Young Adult) novel when I bought it, and having read it, I would

definitely say it is more geared towards the younger market. I found the language a little hyperbolic and overly exaggerated – I know, coming from me, that is saying something! However, the story is intriguing and anyone who is a fan of the zombie or post-apocalypse genre should definitely give ita go.

CO-OP AT PRIDE 2023

This year the Co-op and Nisa are attending 24 Pride parades throughout the UK. There are a total of 145 Food stores and 54 Funeralcare homes along the parade routes:

2) Birmingham

3) Blackpool

GET INVOLVED!

There’s LOADS to get involved with as a colleague this pride, so keep up to date by checking us out on Yammer and Twitter!

Want to connect with us and show support? Grab your phone and take a heart hand selfie!

Use #RespectColleagues and tag us on Twitter or Yammer

KNOW YOUR NETWORK

To continue our ‘Know your Network’ feature, for this edition of the magazine we caught up with Ash Akhtar, to tell us more about his role as one of the Co-Chairs of our Rise network and to get his thoughts on some of the issues affecting those in the LGBTQ+ community who are also from ethnic minority backgrounds

By Dan Sayers-Yates

I began my career as a Comms Manager in Funeralcare. It was my first experience in a world where one of the most critical aspects for frontline colleagues is to provide emotional support to grieving families, which they're brilliant at. I've been a Strategic Comms Business Partner for the last four years, supporting the Food business on various programmes. I love working in comms as I like making an impact. I enjoy the variety of work, value collaboration and relationship building, and have a passion for creativity and communication.

One of my passions is diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. My need to feel part of something stems from losing contact with my family and childhood friends for a long time after coming out as a gay man in my midtwenties. Even though coming out was liberating and gave me a sense of freedom, it also brought loneliness and loss.

I became a member of the Respect network and had the pleasure of being part of the Pride working groups, especially last year when we attended London Pride with a float for the first time. I also joined Rise as a steering member a few years ago, to help create a fairer world and influence the networks agenda. I left due to other commitments but re-joined in March as Co -Chair. I've had incredible conversations with our leaders, members, allies and those who need clarification on the purpose of colleague networks. We have some work to do in this space to educate people across the business and collaborate more so we can be cooperators!

As someone from an ethnic minority background who's also part of the LGBTQ+ community, why is it important that Co-op networks work together?

Like all of us, my life is multi-dimensional and complex. I have multiple layers and characteristics to identify myself. First and foremost, I am a South Asian man with a Pakistani heritage. I come from aMuslim family (I no longer follow any organised religion, but I still have a level of loyalty and connection to people of faith because I grew up in that environment). I'm unsure what I believe, but I'm still discovering and exploring what that might mean. And, importantly, I am a gay man.

These characteristics can have varying degrees of impact on my personal and working life. Sometimes it's hard not to feel like you're the only one in the room with specific characteristics, and it can be hard not to feel like you're being judged or excluded in certain situations. It's why being part of colleague networks provides me with a sense of community and belonging with other colleagues who share common interests or experiences. Colleague networks are a great way to promote diversity and inclusion, they provide a platform for underrepresented groups to share experiences and they’re great vehicles for change.

Tell us about your life at Co-op so far and why you chose to get involved with Rise?

Being siloed can be too easy, so colleague networks must work together on awareness days and events to ensure an intersectional approach, but this can be challenging. For example, during Pride we shared some fab colleague stories, but they tended to be from people in the white community. These events are the perfect opportunity for us to consider things from an intersectional perspective. It's a chance for all networks to collaborate in their approach to ensure equal and fair representation of people with multiple and often marginalised characteristics, such as people who are gay but have a disability or are Asian, Black, parents etc. One of my ambitions this year is to continuously promote and foster a culture of collaboration among the different networks so that every activity has diverse representation. In Rise we have regular conversations about working with people in different teams and across networks to create an environment for intersectional collaboration where everyone feels safe, valued, and included. We've got a long way to go, but we've started to think differently, which will become evident as the year progresses.

Celebrating Black People and People of Colour (PoC) during Pride is essential because the LGBTQ+ community includes people from all races, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Pride is a time to recognise and celebrate the contributions of all LGBTQ+ individuals, including those who are often marginalised and face additional challenges due to their race or ethnicity. Black People and PoC have played a significant role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and continue to face intersecting forms of discrimination and oppression. Celebrating their identities and contributions during Pride sends a message of inclusivity and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

Pride is important because it celebrates and recognises the LGBTQ+ community's contributions to society, history, and culture. It's a time for people to unite, show support, and raise awareness of the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.

Pride has become a symbol of LGBTQ+ liberation and a celebration of the diverse identities that make up the LGBTQ+ community. But importantly, it's also an opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals to feel seen and validated, to express themselves authentically, and to celebrate their identities without fear of judgment or persecution, especially considering the ongoing challenges faced by the community, including discrimination, violence, and lack of legal protections in many parts of the world.

Pride events give a powerful message that there is strength in communities coming together and that LGBTQ+ people are not alone in their struggles. They also serve as a reminder that despite us being in the 21st century, a lot still needs to be done!

We all know about Marsha P. Johnson’ s involvement in the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, but there are lesser-known figures such as Bayard Rustin who was a Black gay man and one of the main organisers of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. Also, Audre Lorde, a Black lesbian poet and activist who wrote extensively about the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Her work helped to elevate the experiences and perspectives of Black lesbians and other queer women of colour, and she played an important role in building solidarity between differentsocialjustice movements.

If I talk about my experience, coming out as a gay man in the South Asian community was not easy. I spent most of my young adult life initially being confused and later pretending to be a straight man so that others around me were not uncomfortable or for fear of being labelled as a deviant in my community. Coming out was liberating, but sadly being part of the LGBTQ+ community is taboo in many South Asian and ethnic minority cultures.

It upsets me to read about countries with laws that punish people by death or imprisonment for simply being who they are. So, it's vital that we use Pride events and celebrations that raise awareness of Black and PoC's ongoing struggles, including higher rates of violence, discrimination, and lack of access to healthcare and resources. By highlighting these issues and bringing attention to them, we can work towards creating a more equitable and just society for everyone, regardless ofrace orethnicity.

Intersectionality is really important for Respect. Is there anything Rise is doing to promote it?

As this is our Pride issue, we'd love your thoughts on why Pride is so important.

UK Black Pride is an increasingly popular event celebrating PoC within the LGBTQ+ community, why is it important for PoC to have a dedicated event for Pride?

Black trans lives and trans lives more broadly are under constant threat from systemic racism and transphobia - what needs changing to enable those affected to feel safe and validated?

Unfortunately, trans people generally face disproportionate levels of discrimination, harassment, and violence. Unfairly, Black trans individuals face unique challenges due to the intersection of racism and transphobia. They experience higher poverty, homelessness, and unemployment rates and are likely to be victims of hate crimes.

We all need to recognise the ongoing struggles faced by trans people regardless of their race and ethnicity. We need to actively work towards creating a more just and equitable society for them, which includes advocating for policies that protect their rights and supporting organisations that provide resources and support to trans communities. And it's vital that we actively challenge transphobia and racism in our daily lives.

We wish to Reinforce Inclusion through Solidarity and Equality (RISE). Thatmeans:

• we provide a safe and inclusive space for our members to discuss and address issues that affect them as ethnic minorities at work, including cultural barriers, stereotypes, microaggressions, unconscious biases, and discrimination

• we provide a platform to share lived experiences and perspectives and offer guidance and support to colleagues across the business

• we provide valuable resource for the Co-op leaders related to inclusion when it comes to race and ethnicity

• we work collaboratively with business to identify areas where Co-op can improve policies and practices to support ethnic minority colleagues better

• we provide a support system for Rise Network members in their professional and personal life

Our three goals for this year are:

- Growing our Rise network members: from 200 at the start of the year to 500 by the end of 2023 to create a movement of champions and allies supporting inclusion purposefully.

- Support Co-op's hiring processes: working across Co-op to help make recruitment more inclusive to ensure the experience is more positive forethnic minority colleagues

What are your priorities for Rise in 2023? Is there anything Respect members can do to support these?

The priorities for the Rise Network largely remain the same. We're a network dedicated to increasing cultural or religious awareness and amplifying the voices of ethnic minority colleagues through education of lived experiences. But we want to move the dial this year.

- Improve minority representation at Co-op: working with the People team to address the root causes of underrepresentation of ethnic minorities colleagues and to review the race commitments, to ensure they're relevant and we're working towards achieving them

So how can the Respect network help? Well, simply by doing things like this. Including us in your activity, participating and showing an interest in our events and being allies in helping us deliver our goals. Oh, and check out our Rise Network SharePoint site too.

OUT AND ABOUT

By Lindsay Robinson

Working with Respect I find myself leaning into a lot of things that I may not necessarily get a chance to do in my everyday life, it’s one of the things I really love about it. Last year I was asked to step in and lead the work we do with the Iris film festival, but like many colleagues, I didn’t really know much about the festival and what the excitement was all about.

So what is the Iris Prize?

The Iris Prize is a filmand media organisation committed to increasing audiences for LGBTQ+ stories. Our main projects include the annual Iris Prize LGBTQ+ FilmFestival and Iris on the Move, our UK wide touring programme. Our partnershipwith Film4/ All4 delivers a million viewers for our Best British programme of shorts films. We also support the production of new content via the £30,000 Iris Prize; our Documentary Film Finance Fund invests £20,000 annually in one British documentary; and our community work funded by the Lottery Community Fund will soon have produced 50 short films! Iris also runs LGBTQ+education and community outreach projects in Wales & the UK throughout the year.

Now back to Lindsay...

As terrified and worried as I felt, there was no way I could turn the opportunity down. I was lucky enough to work alongside the wonderful Iris team and had amazing support from some of my Co-op colleagues too. It’s fair to say that my eyes were opened even more to the difference organisations like Iris and Co-op make, and how powerful it can be when two organisations, which share the same values, come together to celebrate diversity and the LGBTQ+ community.

On the opening night of the festival our inhouse chef Dai prepared some fantastic food, with some of our local suppliers also attending to showcase their own fabulous products. Over the course of the week some of our colleagues and member pioneers were given the opportunity to volunteer and were lucky enough to watch the amazing films, meet the directors and actors and learn more about the heart of where the stories come from.

I’ve never really been one to watch a short film but having the privilege of being able to watch these really opened my eyes. I cried, I laughed, I

felt hurt and so many of the stories resonated with on a personal level. I am so proud that we as a network and business support this film festival, it reinforces why it’s so important that we continue to create safe spaces where people feel that they can be themselves, always.

Respect will continue to work with the Iris Film Festival, so I’d really encourage you to come along and get involved. You can also catch the short films being showcased on Film 4, so don’t miss out!

LGBTQ+ ICONS

As this year marks Respect’s 15th Birthday, we wanted to celebrate it by recognising 15 prolific icons who’ve really made an impact in the LGBTQ+ community. Covering a wide cross-section of industries like acting, singing or activism to name a few, these individuals have really been trailblazers in championing our rights and leaving a lasting legacy in the LGBTQ+ history books...

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THESE ARTICLES ARE ABOUT REAL PEOPLE AND REAL LIFE EVENTS THAT WE HAVE ATTEMPTED TO REPRESENT FAIRLY. SOME CONTENT CONTAINS REFERENCE TO DEATH/ SUICIDE, VIOLENCE, OR QUOTED LANGUAGE THAT SOME MAY FIND TRIGGERING OR OFFENSIVE

Madonna, though she introduction, is an American songwriter. Referred to as Pop’, she is known reinventing herself and her the boundaries of artistic has seen her sell over 300 worldwide and has the Number 1 singles by a woman Not only is she an icon in her she is an iconic ally for community.

On the 21st of March released her album ‘Like stirred up controversy as contained an information ‘The Facts About AIDS’ pamphlet safe sex guidelines and AIDS. This was at a time epidemic, when the disease ‘gay disease’ and the LGBTQ+ particularly gay men, were pamphlet stated facts about to the disease as ‘an equal

Lily Savage (AKA Paul O’Grady MBE) first rose to fame in the 1980s as his drag queen persona, touring England as part of drag duo “The Playgirls” with Sandra Hush. Wanting to keep the act diversified, Lily even learned fire-eating and developed a strip-tease act wearing a fat suit. Lily was the entertainer with a wardrobe full of leopard print and blonde wigs.

Known for using his entertainment platform as Lily to speak out on issues affecting the gay community and gay rights, particularly during the HIV/AIDS crisis. He marched against Section 28, a policy that many denounced as homophobic, and raised funds for HIV/AIDS research.

For eight years, Lily could be seen regularly performing at a South London gay bar, The Royal Tavern, before presenting his own shows up until 2001. Lily was seen as ahead of the times and credited for transforming the country’s attitude towards drag, speaking out publicly and even fronting the campaign for “Pretty Polly” tights. A stark comparison to today’s attitude towards TikTok star Dylan Mulvaney and recent drag bans occurring in the US.

In the mid-2000s, Lily decided to hang up the

dresses and began to work solely as Paul, continuing his charity work and becoming known as an ambassador for Battersea Dogs & Cats home. Sadly, we saw the passing of Paul in March 2023, aged just 67, leaving behind his husband, Andre Portasio, five beloved dogs, and a large community of friends and fans.

By Kerry Jary

Paul O’Grady

needs no real American singer and as the ‘Queen of for continually her music, pushing expression. This 300 million records record for most woman in the UK. her own right, but for the LGBTQ+ 1989, Madonna

A Prayer’, which as each CD case card about AIDS. pamphlet featured warnings about time of the AIDS disease was seen as a LGBTQ+ community, were demonised. The about AIDS, referring equal opportunity

disease’ and advocated for safe sex, no matter your gender.

Another notable moment in her allyship was in June 2011. Madonna urged her fans to support same-sex marriage in New York, posting on her website ‘New Yorkers your voices must be heard. Tell your state Congressmen to support same sex marriage bill. All you need is love.’ The Marriage Equality Act passed one week later, legalising same-sex marriage in New York.

In March 2019, Madonna attended the 24th GLAAD Media Awards dressed as a Boy Scout. This was in protest to of the ‘Boy Scouts of America’ ban on homosexual Scouts and Scout Leaders. While presenting an award, she made a speech in which she said, ‘things like bigotry, homophobia, hate crimes, bullying and any form of discrimination always seem to be a manifestation of fear of the unknown" and ‘if we just took the time to get to know one another that we would find that we are not so different after all.’

By Haydn Rothwell

The word legend gets thrown about a lot these days, but no one deserves this honour like Madonna, not only for her contribution to music, but for her continuous fight for the LGBTQ+ community and human equality as a whole. Madonna truly is an iconic LGBTQ+ ally.

By Lindsay Robinson

Dame Kelly Holmes DBE OLY is a retired British middle-distance athlete. Her events were the 800 and 1500 metres and won gold medals for both distances in her final Olympics in 2004.

She originally joined the British Army but turned professional athlete in 1993 going on to win many medals of all varieties including the Commonwealth Games, World and European Championships - taking silver at the European Championships in 2003. She retired from athletics in 2005 and has since been made an honorary colonel with the Royal Armoured Corps Training Regiment as well as a Dame Commander.

In June 2022 while doing an interview with the Sunday Mirror, Kelly spoke about being gay, saying she had known since 1988 but couldn’t come out because it was still illegal in the military. Kelly waited until this time to come out because she feared there still would be consequences from the army, and even though she was a huge public figure after her Olympic performance, she was afraid of being shunned by other athletes as she did not know of any other openly gay athletes at the time.

Kelly founded her own charity, ‘The Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust’, in 2008 of which she is the chair. She now works as a motivational speaker and openly talks about her struggles with mental health. The documentary ‘Being Me’ describes her fears of her sexuality being exposed. On the documentary, she said “The documentary taught me so much about generational and social advancements when it comes to the LGBQT+ world”.

Madonna

Kelly Holmes

Born Marie Magdalene Dietrich on 27 December 1901, Marlene Dietrich became synonymous with the Golden Age of Hollywood. She got her first big break in 'The Blue Angel' – a German film that was filmed in both English and German at the same time – and was soon on her way to the USA with a contract at Paramount Pictures.

Both a singer and an actress, Marlene was known for her distinctive deep voice, glamorous looks, and manner. She starred in several big films such as 'Shanghai Express', 'A Foreign Affair', 'Stage Fright', 'Witness for the Prosecution', 'Destry Rides Again', and 'Judgment at Nuremberg'. Her most famous song is 'Lili Marlene'. This song was so popular that it was sung by soldiers on both sides of the Second World War!

She was an incredibly popular entertainer during the war, performing for the Allied troops all over the world and helping German and French exiles

after the war in their journey for US citizenship. Unfortunately, not all of Germany fully accepted her in the years after the war, as many saw her as a traitor to her country for her stance against Nazism. Posthumously, Marlene-Dietrich-Platz was named in her honour in her hometown ofBerlin.

Marlene Dietrich

Sir Elton John has been an openly gay member of the LGBTQ+ community since the early 1990’s, back when it was still uncommon for high-profile celebrities to come out. His openness about his sexuality has helped to inspire and empower LGBTQ+ people around the world, particularly during a time when homophobia was more prevalent.

In addition to his personal life, Elton John has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using his platform to support numerous LGBTQ+ causes. Even going as far as establishing his own charity - the Elton John AIDS Foundation - in 1992, which has since become one of the largest funders of HIV/AIDS programs in the world.

The foundation supports a wide range of HIV related initiatives, including prevention and education, support for those living with HIV and human rights work. To date the organisation has raised over $600million to support these programmes across 55 countries. You can learn more about this work here.

In relation to his music, this has often touched on themes of love, acceptance, and identity, resonating with LGBTQ+ people around the world. Some of his most iconic songs, such as "Tiny Dancer," "Rocket Man," and "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," have become anthems for the LGBTQ+ community, and his flamboyant

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By Sean Walsh

stage presence has been celebrated for its gender-bending and nonconformist qualities.

Finally, Elton John's personal journey and struggles with addiction, including his decision to get sober, have also inspired many people within the LGBTQ+ community to seek help and support for their own challenges. Overall, Elton John's contributions to music, philanthropy, and advocacy have made him a beloved and influential figure within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

By Julia Lietzau

Elton John

Marlene was a gender non-conforming fashion icon. She was one of the first actresses to wear clothes usually assigned to men, typically a tuxedo, and would also sing songs that were sung by men. She was also one of the first actresses to share a same-sex kiss on film in 'The Blue Angel'. She was bisexual and in an open marriage. She was known have had affairs with many big names in Hollywood, such as Gary Cooper, Lupe Vélez, Frank Sinatra, and JFK, as well as rumors of a tryst between Marlene and Edith Piaf, for whom she was matron ofhonour.

icon through the decades, she has been revered by the LGBTQ+ community for her nononsense stance on issues that were dear to her heart. She was unapologetically herself and wasn't afraid to push boundaries and change people's perception of what the world should be like.

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RuPaul first rose to fame in the 1990’s with his hit single "Supermodel (You Better Work)", which became a pop culture phenomenon and launched his career as a drag queen. Since then, he has continued to push boundaries and challenge norms, both within the LGBTQ+ community and in society at large.

He is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in contemporary LGBTQ+ culture, thanks to his work in breaking down barriers and bringing drag into the mainstream due to the global smash hit TV show Rupaul Drag Race. Beyond drag, Rupaul is also an actor, model, singer, author, and television personality.

His work as the host and Executive Producer of Rupaul’s Drag Race hasn’t gone unnoticed, to date the show has won 27 Primetime Emmy Awards, with Rupaul also setting a record as the most decorated black artist in Emmy’s history. The show is often praised for its celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and for promoting acceptance of different genders and sexual identities.

In addition to his work in entertainment, RuPaul is also a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used his platform to support various charitable organisations. He has been recognised for his

By Julia Lietzau

contributions to LGBTQ+ culture, including being inducted into the California Hall of Fame and receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Overall, RuPaul is seen as a trailblazer and an inspiration to many in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, thanks to his unwavering commitment to authenticity, self-expression, and inclusivity. Without a doubt Rupaul is the epitome of an LGBTQ+ icon.

Walsh

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The Irish poet and novelist, Oscar Fingal O'Fflahertie Wills Wilde (actual spelling!), was born on 16th October 1854 in Dublin. He attended Trinity College in Dublin and then Magdalen College at Oxford to study the "greats," where he developed a taste for the "Aestheticism" art movement of the 19th century, which centred around the aesthetic qualities of art and culture. He published poetry in magazines from the beginning of his university days. After leaving university, he moved to London and published a book called "Poems". This began a long line of literary successes and failures, such as "The Duchess of Padua," "Salomé," "Lady Windermere's Fan," "A Woman of No Importance," and perhaps most famously, "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "The Importance of Being Earnest."

His personal life was quite turbulent. He married Constance Lloyd in 1884, but became enamoured with Robert Ross, a young man who would feature throughout his life. After Wilde's death, Ross purchased all the rights to his works that had been sold off due to bankruptcy and gave themback toOscar's sons.

After meeting Ross, there were a string of male lovers, none more famous perhaps than Lord Alfred Douglas.

Ian McKellen

By Sean Walsh

Born in Burnley, Lancashire on 25th May 1939 he moved to Wigan at the start of the Second World War and then on to Bolton when he lost his mother aged 12. He lost his father, a civil engineer at the age of 25. After his coming out as gay to his stepmother, Gladys McKellen, who was a Quaker, he said, "Not only was she not fazed, but as a member of a society which declared its indifference to people's sexuality years back, I think she was just glad for my sake that I wasn't lying any more". He was knighted in 1991 for his services to the performing arts.

Sir Ian McKellen is one of the most well-known actors in British history. He has had an exemplary career on stage and screen, ranging from Shakespeare, modern theatre, drama, comedy to even playing Magneto in the X-Men series and Gandalf in The Lord of Rings. Over the years he has built up a collection of a great many accolades and awards including Tony, Olivier, and Golden Globe awards.

Sir Ian publicly came out in 1988 on Radio 3 as a direct response to the, then proposed, antiLGBTQ+ Section 28 of the Local Government Bill, as he was debating the legislation with a conservative journalist. He also visited Michael Howard, who was the Environment Secretary at the time and in charge of local government in an effort to get him to change his mind. He did not but asked for his autograph for his children. He said yes, but wrote “F**k Off, I’m Gay!” instead. He is a co-founder of Stonewall, the LGBTQ+ charity that was founded in 1989 and has grown to be one of the biggest LGBTQ+ charities in the whole of Europe. Again, it was a rallying cry against the Section 28 legislation, and he has said that gay rights is the cause closest to his heart. He also works with age-related charities, Only Make Believe, who put on shows in children’s hospitals in the US as well as independent theatres as well. He is also against nuclear war and is a fundraiser for AIDS causes.

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Douglas's father, the Marquess of Queensbury, was the of the "Queensbury Rules" of boxing, which are used today. When the Marquess found out what was on, he confronted Oscar. When that didn't seem to him, he arrived at the club that Oscar frequented left the infamous calling card reading "For Oscar posing sodomite. [sic]." This led to a downward for Wilde, who tried to sue the Marquess for libel lost. He would eventually be tried for homosexual "offences" and sentenced to hard labour. His health declined, and he went into exile in France. His wife sent little money, which he spent on alcohol. He died on November 1900 inParis, where he was buried.

Ross commissioned Wilde's tomb, which included compartment for Ross's own ashes, which were transferred there in 1950. The epitaph is from Wilde's "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" and reads, "And alien will fill for him, Pity's long-broken urn, For his mourners will be outcast men, And outcasts always mourn." His legacy lives on among the millions of people have read his wonderful works, especially those in LGBTQ+ community, who are still repressed and around the world to this day.

By Sean Walsh

Munroe Bergdorf, born in September 1987, is a renowned model, writer, and activist. She was the first transgender person to appear on the cover of Cosmopolitan UK and to be hired by the cosmetics brand L’Oréal. Her achievements are indisputable. Bergdorf has faced criticism for her views on race and gender, but her activism and fight for equality make her an LGBTQ+ icon.

Bergdorf gained public attention in August 2017 when she became the first transgender model to front a L'Oréal campaign in the UK. At the time, she expressed her gratitude, stating, "Thank you L’Oréal Paris for giving me this platform. I hope it reaches another little eight-year-old trans girl and makes her feel a little more hopeful and a little less scared about her future.’ However, just a month later, on 1st September, L'Oréal dropped her from the campaign. This decision was a result of past comments she had made about ‘all white people as a group being brought up racist.’ Bergdorf defended herself, arguing that she was expressing anger and attempting to explain that racism is systemic, extending beyond personal attacks and encompassing the failure to challenge the system itself.

During the international George Floyd protests in June 2020, Bergdorf criticized L'Oréal Paris for posting on Instagram that they stood in solidarity with the Black community, saying that she had never received an apology from them. In

By Haydn Rothwell

response, the company announced the creation of a UK Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Board, with Bergdorf as one of its members.

In February 2018, she was appointed as an LGBTQ+ adviser to the Labour Party, which she resigned from the following month after homophobic and misogynistic Tweets resurfaced, for which she apologised. Bergdorf later blamed ‘Conservative media’ for using her as a political pawn to bring down Jeremy Corbyn.

Having been named "Changemaker of the Year" in 2018 by Cosmopolitan UK, she became the first transgender person to feature on the front cover of the magazine with its 50th anniversary issue, which was published on 21st January 2022. In November 2021, Bergdorf was recognised with the Gay Times Honour for British Community Trailblazer at the fifth annual Gay Times Honours celebration.

Oscar Wilde

Munroe Bergdorf

Alan Turing

Alan Turing, born in June 1912, was an English mathematician, who is widely considered to be the father of computer science and artificial intelligence (AI). Turing was a homosexual man, in a time when homosexuality was a criminal offence in the UK. His work during World War II helped to shorten the war and save countless lives, which makes him an LGBTQ+ hero. A statue of him sits in Sackville Gardens in Manchester’ s Gay Village.

One of Turning’s most significant achievements was cracking the ‘Enigma’ code. In 1939, he took up a full-time role at Bletchley Park, carrying out work deciphering the military codes used by Germany and its allies. Turing famously cracked the Enigma code by mechanising subtle logical deductions to develop his more powerful ‘Bombe’ machine. From mid-1940, German Air Force signals could be read, and by late 1940, the machine was decoding all messages sent by the Enigma machines. By early 1942, around 39,000 intercepted messages were decoded each month, by 1943, this rose to over 84,000 which works out to around two every minute.

Alan Turing’s code work is credited with shortening the war by at least two years, helping result in the Allied victory and saving an estimated 14 million lives. Turing was awarded an OBE in 1945 by King George VI for his services to the country, yet his work in cracking the Enigma code was kept secret until the 1970s, with the full story not known until the 1990s.

On 23rd January 1952, Turing's house was burgled. He reported the crime to the police, and during the investigation, he acknowledged a sexual relationship with Arnold Murray. Homosexual acts were criminal offences in the UK at that time and both men were charged with gross indecency under Section 11 of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 1885. Turing was convicted and given a choice between imprisonment or probation. His probation would be conditional on his agreement to undergo hormonal physical changes designed to reduce libido, also known as chemical castration. He accepted the option of injections of a synthetic oestrogen. This continued for the course of a year, which rendered him impotent. Turing's conviction also led to the removal of his security clearance and barred him from continuing with his consultancy for the Government Communications Headquarters.

By Haydn Rothwell

Sadly, Turing's housekeeper found him dead, on 8th June 1954 at the age of 41. Cyanide poisoning was established as the cause of death as when his body was discovered, an apple lay half-eaten beside his bed. Although the apple was not tested for cyanide, it was speculated that this was how Turing had consumed a fatal dose. An inquest determined his death to be a suicide. Turing's remains were cremated at Woking Crematorium and his ashes were scattered in the gardens of the crematorium.

In 2013, Turing received a posthumous royal pardon, almost 60 years after his conviction for gross indecency. The pardon was granted under the Royal Prerogative of Mercy after a request by Justice Minister Chris Grayling, with it coming into effect on the 24th December, following years of campaigning from Turing’s supporters. In 2016, the government was committed to introducing the “Alan Turing Law”, through an amendment to the Policing and Crime Bill, which would pardon thousands of gay men convicted under historic gross indecency crimes for consensual same-sex relationships. Weeks after the 50th anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall riots in 2019, Alan Turing become the new face of the £50 note, to celebrate his revolutionary works with computers.

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and decided

and BAFTA other

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Stephen Russell Davies

OBE FRSL - better known as Russell T Davies - is a Welsh screenwriter and a television producer. He specialises in emotional dramas, frequently with gay and sex-related adult themes.

He took a BBC Television directors course in the 1980s and did present one episode of Play School before he decided production was the way forward for him. He has written and produced many award-winning and very successful shows. ‘Childrens Ward’ won a BAFTA children’s award for Best Drama in 1996. His other shows include ITV drama ‘Touching Evil’, ground breaking adult drama ‘Queer as Folk’ but most famously he is known for being chief writer and executive producer of the revival of ‘Doctor Who’ in 2005.

He has created more gay drama with shows Cucumber’ and the sex themed documentary series Tofu’. He also wrote the screenplay for a ‘Very English Scandal’ which starred Hugh Grant as the Liberal Party leader Jeremy Thorpe and Ben Whishaw as his lover. He later wrote ‘It’s a Sin’ which is about the AIDs crisis which swept through the gay community in the 1980s.

He was awarded OBE in the 2008 Queens Birthday Honours List for his services to television drama. And the T in his name doesn’t stand for anything, he added to distinguish himself from the radio DJ Russell Davies!

By Lindsay Robinson

Russell T Davis

By Kerry Jary

A German singer and songwriter living in the USA, Kim Petras has been recording music since being a teen. Starting off writing for other stars, she soon realised she wanted to share her voice with the World.

She made history at the 2023 Grammy awards, with her duet with Sam Smith and taking home the best Duo/group performance award becoming the first ever trans woman to win in that category. She was also only the second trans woman to win a Grammy in its history. Due to its historic relevancy, Sam Smith stepped aside for Kim to accept the award on their behalf. Afterwards tweeting “OMG I’m a tranny with a Grammy” and praised Madonna who is well know for her activism in the LGBTQIA+ space.

Prior to her historical Grammy winning success, Kim performed in Australia at Mardi Gras and was even spotted at Co-op ’s hometown of Manchester for Pride – the first time she had performed to such a large crowd!

A very proud Transgender artist, Kim is much more than that and while she is keen to use her platform for good, she also doesn’t want this to be all she is known for. At the age of 30 we will see a lot more of Kim and she has definitely earned a new fan base over at Respect.

Kim Petras

well as commanding performances in 'Silkwood', 'Mask', 'The Witches of Eastwick', 'Burlesque', and most recently 'Mamma Mia'. The LGBTQ+ community loves everything she does!

However, Cher is not infallible. Before her son Chaz Bono came out as trans, she infamously kicked him out of the house when he came out as a lesbian. She later expressed regret for her reaction and has since been an outspoken supporter of his journey as a trans man.

Cher

By Sean Walsh

Cherilyn Sarkisian was born on May 20th, 1946. She went by many names with her singing partner and ex husband Sonny, including Caesar and Cleo, and Sonny and Cher, before breaking out as a solo artist under the name Cher. She is often referred to as 'the Goddess of Pop'.

Cher has been an icon for the LGBTQ+ community for decades, thanks to her fabulous and daring outfits on the 'Sonny & Cher Show' during the 60s and 70s, as well as her powerful voice and passionate songs. In addition to being a wonderful singer, she is also an Oscar-winning actress, winning for her role in 'Moonstruck', as

Cher is also known for being a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ and women's rights, animal welfare, racial equality, and a critic of those who would take people's rights away. Check out her Twitter for her hilarious put-downs! Her one-liners are brilliant, such as when she replied to her mum who had suggested that she should settle down with a nice, rich man: "Mom, I am a rich man!"

Cher has been in the public eye for 60 years this year and has had number 1 hits in every decade since the sixties. She says this longevity is the reason why the LGBTQ+ community loves her so much, and this is a big part of it. Despite facing near bankruptcy, failed marriages, and media scrutiny about every aspect of her life, she has always come back even stronger and more fabulous than before, which is certainly something that resonates strongly amongst the LGBTQ+ community. Long live the 'Goddess of Pop'!

Marsha P. Johnson is an iconic figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, especially for the trans and non-binary community. Her activism and advocacy for marginalized communities continue to be an inspiration to many still.

Born in 1945 in New Jersey, Johnson moved to New York City's Greenwich Village in the 1960s, quickly becoming a fixture in the city's LGBTQ+ community and a founding member of the Gay Liberation Front and Street Transvestite (now Trans) Action Revolutionaries - STAR.

Johnson's activism in support of the LGBTQ+ community was fuelled by her own experiences as a trans woman of colour. She faced discrimination and violence throughout her life, but she never gave up on fighting for justice and equality.

In 1969, Johnson was present at the Stonewall Inn during the riots which are widely considered to be when the modern-day LGBTQ+ rights movement began. She played a key role in the uprising and continued to be a vocal advocate

for the LGBTQ+ community.

In addition to her activism, Johnson was also a well-known figure in the New York City drag scene. She often performed under the name "Black Marsha" and was known for her colourful outfits and lively personality.

Sadly, Johnson's life was cut short when she was found dead in the Hudson River in 1992. Her death was initially ruled a suicide, but many believe she was murdered. Despite this, she is remembered as a trailblazer and an icon for the LGBTQ+ community, with her fearless advocacy and commitment to social justice continuing to inspire.

In recent years, there’s been a renewed focus on her legacy, with the 2017 release of "The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson" documentary, and a monument honouring her being unveiled in Greenwich Village in 2019. Both helping to cement Johnson's story, so her contributions to the LGBTQ+ rights movement aren’t forgotten.

Marsha power standing inspiration and allies, and empower

Marsha

Demi Lovato is a singer, songwriter, and actor who has become a powerful voice for the LGBTQ+ community. Through their music and advocacy work, Lovato has become an icon and inspiration for many young people.

From a young age, Lovato has been open about her struggles with mental health and addiction. Both their honesty and vulnerability have helped to break down stigmas and raise awareness about these important issues. In recent years, she has also become an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

In 2016, Lovato publicly identified as queer and began using their platform to speak out in support of LGBTQ+ equality. She has been a vocal advocate for the community, speaking out against the discrimination they have experienced within their industry.

In addition to her advocacy work, Lovato's music has also been a source of empowerment for many LGBTQ+ fans. Their song "Cool for the Summer" was hailed as a bisexual anthem, whilst continuing to create music which celebrates diversity and encourages self-love and acceptance.

Lovato's activism and advocacy work have not gone unnoticed. In 2016, she was honoured with the GLAAD Vanguard Award for their commitment to LGBTQ+equality. They have also been recognized

Marsha P. Johnson's life is a testament to the power of activism and the importance of standing up for what is right. She remains an inspiration to generations of LGBTQ+ activists allies, and her legacy will continue to inspire empower people for years tocome.

By Rebecca Smith

for their work with The Trevor Project, an organization providing crisis intervention and

Lovato has been an inspiration to many, through her advocacy work and by sharing their own discovery and acceptance. By being so willing to share her struggles and triumphs, she has helped to create a more supportive and understanding environment for those who may be going through similar experiences.

By Rebecca Smith

Marsha P Johnson

Demi Lovato

US STATE BAN ON DRAG

Recently states across the US have seen a surge in proposed laws which seek to limit, or ban drag shows altogether, with the legislation supposedly helping to protect children from being exposed to sexually explicit content by re-classifying drag shows as “adult-orientated performances”. These bills aim to severely punish anyone who performs a drag act in front of children, as well as those who allow this to happen. People found in violation of these laws face up to 10 ten years in prison and must register as a sex offender.

Rightly causing alarm within our community and amongst our allies, the proposed bills have been seen as an unfair and unjust attack on the freedom and artistic expression of those who

By Julia Lietzau

perform drag. They’ve also raised concerns about the impact they could have on the LGBTQ+ community more broadly, particularly trans and non-binary people.

Unfortunately, Tennessee became the first state to ban drag shows in public spaces, following a push from local conservative government officials. Just recently Arizona became the latest state to propose similar legislation, following Arkansas, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas and West Virginia

In Arkansas, Senate Bill 43 initially banned drag shows in public places around minors but was later amended to restrict “adult-oriented” shows. In Idaho, House Bill 265 sought to ban drag performances in public spaces and enables parents to sue event organisers and promoters who permit minors to watch shows with ‘sexual conduct’. The bill passed in the House of Representatives in March will advance to the Senate for avote.

Missouri introduced House Bill 1364, criminalising the engaging, organising, or authorizing of adult cabaret performances, including drag shows, on public property. This also includes drag queen story hour or any other event where a drag queen engages in learning with children, with the bill containing a provision which means a school district, charter school, or employee/volunteer from a school will lose state funding if found violating the legislation.

In Texas, four bills are being considered which expands the definition of “sexually-oriented businesses” to include venues that host drag shows, featuring performers who display a different gender identity to the one they’ re assigned at birth. This forces such venues to need additional licenses and pay different taxes, or cease hosting drag events. The bills have been

referred to the Senate and House State Affairs Committee.

The fate of these bills remains to be seen as they continue to face scrutiny and opposition. It feels as if the “land of the free” is not so free after all. It’ s disappointing to see how rapid this legislation gained momentum and our community come under attack yet again. Our hearts go out to those in the drag and LGBTQ+ community in the US.

We hope that these proposed bills are rejected, and that our community can once again feel safe and able to make livelihoods without fear of persecution. We will come back stronger from this, after all it’s not the first time we’ve faced this adversity. Click here to learn more, we also encourage you to go support your local drag queens!

YOUR LOCAL CAUSES

By Dan Sayers-Yates

Tell us more about Breakout Youth?

Breakout Youth is a charity supporting LGBTQ+ people between 11 and 25 years old. We provide youth work support via six in-person youth groups across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight every week, as well as a weekly virtual group offer for those unable to attend face-to-face sessions. Alongside our groups, we also provide 1:1 support for young people and parents, advocacy work and training for schools and professionals.

Why is the work you do important?

Young people deserve safe, accessible spaces to explore their identities without judgement, so at Breakout Youth we’re committed to providing these. In the wake of the pandemic, and with the current political and media climate in the UK, we’re witnessing an exponential rise in struggles with mental health and self-esteem within our population of young people. Organisations like ours, and the other amazing LGBTQ+ local causes supported by Co-op, can provide invaluable support to safeguard and empower the members ofourcommunitythat need it most.

What difference has Breakout Youth made in your community?

We’ve seen a large increase in referrals coming through, with the number of young people we’ re supporting and more complex caseloads also on the rise. Since 2022, we’ve received 225 referrals and supported 441 young people, with just under 14,000 interactions taking place with those using our services.

Werecently gathered feedbackfromour young people and received heart-warming comments such as “[Breakout Youth] has allowed me to be happier and more comfortable when talking to LGBTQ+ people my age. I’m able to be myself and explore who I am without fear” and “it’s a huge honour being a part of Breakout Youth. Breakout has given me huge selfesteemandhelped mymental health”.

How did it feel when you found out you’d been nominated to be one of Co-op ’s local community fund causes?

It’s wonderful to be recognised in our local community for the work we do! One of our favourite times of the year is our Pride Prom event, which we hold every autumn. This is a voted-upon, themed event where our young people come together. In 2022, Co-op ’s Local Community Fund helped us host our Faerie Garden themed prom for 72 of our young people across the county. It was heartening to have the work we do, above and beyond our standard service, acknowledged.

This year marks Respect’s 15th birthday, why are networks and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people needed?

We need safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people now more than ever. With the rising negativity and discourse that we see in the media, it can be really difficult to feel like we ’re making progress or that our voices are heard. There is strength to be found in community, and organisations like ours and networks like Respect are vital in helping LGBTQ+ people have access to peers, resources, andsupport.

How can people support or get involved with your organisation?

Youcanfindout more aboutBreakoutYouthby checkingoutourwebsite here, or byfollowingour social mediachannels:

For any further queries, you’realways welcometo contactusbyemail:

BreakoutYouthUK @Breakout_Youth @Breakout_Youth_UK hello@breakoutyouth.org.uk

What else would you like our readers to know?

It’s our 30th Birthday this year and to celebrate we’ re releasing a charity single following work our young people have done with local, queer musicians. It’ll be available to buy/stream later in the year, so keep an eye out on social media for updates and give it a listen whenitcomes out!

We’re proud to say that Co-op has partnered with 13 causes that support the LGBTQ+ community specifically, as part of this years’ Local Community Fund causes. This number has increased slightly on the previous intake, although we’d love if more LGBTQ+ could benefit from the great work we do as a business in ‘Co-operating for a Fairer World’.

With that, we wanted to shine a spotlight on a few of the previous local causes, to highlight the importance of their work and how Co-op has helped them support the LGBTQ+ community. Firstly, we caught up with Stephanie Doyle of Breakout Youth to tell us more

How did it feel when you found out you’d been nominated to be one of Co-op ’s local causes?

We were delighted to be one of the of Co-op ’s local causes. The co-op is a key part of many of the communities in and around Calderdale. As a local cause this provided a fantastic opportunity for people to find out more about the project and support the campaign.

organisation?

I am project manager for Mind Your Head, a partnership between Happy Valley Pride and The Brunswick Centre, promoting better mental health and wellbeing for LGBTQ+ communities in Calderdale and beyond.

Why is the work that you and the organisation do important?

The Mind Your Head campaign was launched during the pandemic as LGBTQ+ people are more likely to have mental health issues yet less likely to seek help. We felt it was important to help raise awareness of some of the mental health issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community and to highlight the range of services that are available, locally, regionally, and nationally.

What difference has your organisation made in your community?

The campaign started with an online panel session in 2020 and has grown considerably since then. We launched an online hub with lots of tools and resources. We have hosted a range of events including guest speakers award winning author Matthew Todd, influencer Alexis Caught, journalist Yaz Necati and many more. We even have our own Podcast with guests including activist Peter Tatchell, and singer HorseMcDonald amongst others.

The project has provided mental health awareness training, online guided relaxation session and even help keep fit classes.  Additionally, we have worked with many local schools and provide access to free counselling. There has been so many ways to get involved and thousands of people have. We have lots more activities and events planned for the rest of 2023.

This year marks Respect’s 15th birthday, why are networks and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people needed?

Campaigns such as Mind Your Head can break down some of the barriers that LGBTQ+ people may face around mental healthchallenges. It is anopportunity to share stories and to engage with the broader community in a unique and interesting way. Organisations such as Happy Valley Pride and The Brunswick Centre working together on projects such as Mind Your Head means we can work directly with the communities we represent and provide a trusted and engagingcampaign.

How can people support or get involved with your organisation?

Simply look at the website, check out the tools and resources and join in one of our events. As part of the Happy Valle Pride festival there will be a Mind Yor Head hub on Saturday 29 July in Hebden Bridge, bringing together lots of organisations that support LGBTQ+ mental health – so pop along and say hello. Or look out for some of our online events that are open to everyone.

YOUR LOCAL CAUSES CONT.

Tell us more about your role and the organisation?

Kate Howarth - I manage Humankind’s LGBT+ North East services. We offer friendly, practical support around gender identity and/or sexual orientation including one-to-one sessions, peer support and activities.

Why is the work that you and the organisation do important?

We offer specialist support to LGBT+ people, who can sometimes feel excluded from mainstream services and who we know benefit from LGBT+ specific services. We also deliver training to professionals and young people to help raise awareness and understanding. This is really important in working towards a genuinelyinclusivesociety.

What difference has your organisation made in your community?

We work to improve LGBT+ young peoples’ confidence, wellbeing and safety, but the best way of describing this is through the words of the people we workwith!

“I never thought I could feel better and improve my mental health in such a short time. The service has helped me with how to cope with stress and anxiety, how to deal with problems, how to be strong and confidentinmyself.”

“Talking through gender identity was more helpful for my mood that anything I have tried before. It brought to light issues that I didn’t realise I had going on and then I was supported to tackle / cope withthese.”

“If I hadn't had the help I would've just kept going downhill. I was already really low; I would've just got lower and lower. It’s brought me back up a lot compared to what it was. It’ s helped mymental health.”

“It’s been very helpful to meet other LGBT+ people like me and I’ve been able to make friends and talk about things I might not normally be able to.”

“[The service] is really helpful. They’ really understanding andsupportive.”

How did it feel when you found out you’d been nominated to be one of Co-op ’s local causes?

Fantastic – one of our other services has been a Co-op local cause in the past and found it such a positive experience. It’s a great opportunity to not only raise funds but also raise awareness ofourservice.

How can people support or get involved with your organisation?

Check usoutonline:

humankindcharity.org.uk/service/lgbt

@HealthFamilies

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