LGBTQ+ SUB COMMITTEE UPDATE

Bulletin caught up with Shereen and Marc, Chair & Deputy Chair of the new LGBTQ+ Sub Committee to find out more about them and the committee.

What motivated you to set up the subcommittee, Shereen?

Until most recently, I’ve never felt comfortable enough to speak openly about my sexuality in any place of work. I want to change this, and I want to help others who self-identify as being part of the LGBTQ+ community to feel comfortable enough to be their true selves at work, and flourish!

Things are a lot better for the LGBTQ+ community than it was when I first joined the profession, but I appreciate that not everyone has access to the same support networks I now have at my current employer Shoosmiths, and this is where I think the LGBTQ+ subcommittee can play an important role and why I instigated this subcommittee.

Why were you so keen to be involved, Marc, and then put yourself forward for VC?

At their core my reasons are similar to those given by Shereen. I’ve been working within the Birmingham legal sector for around 15 years and whilst I’ve never had to hide my sexuality, I would say that I “toned myself down” for a long time. Things have improved dramatically since I started my career and working for a diverse and inclusive company like No5 Chambers has been great for my confidence and has helped me to find my voice. I know that all work places vary but this is why visibility is so important, I want to help to create an environment where members of the community can feel comfortable to be their authentic selves at work.

How would you summarise the committee’s purpose and goals?

The LGBTQ+ subcommittee will be dedicated to improving the experience of members who self-identify as being part of the LGBTQ+ community both in Birmingham Law Society itself and in the legal profession more widely. It is an opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to have their voices heard.

What are three things you hope to achieve in the first year and long term?

o Visibility o Guidance o Positive change

Who else is on the committee? Do you feel the committee is representative of our legal community?

Shereen Johal, Chair – Associate at Shoosmiths

Marc Forrest-Thomas, Vice Chair – Clerk at No5 Chambers

Jamie Adams – Keele University Graduate

Stephanie Atkins – Trainee Solicitor at Bevan Brittan LLP

Joshua Purser – Barrister at No5 Chambers

Lucy Williams – Associate at Higgs LLP

We feel that we are fairly rounded in terms of diversity and this was important to us when forming this subcommittee – to ensure we have representation across the profession . The subcommittee is made up of a combination of individuals at different stages of their legal careers and are of different ages, race, and gender.

Will there be a launch event?

Yes! Keep your eyes peeled for early 2024…