LGBTQ+ History Month: 2021
How have LGBTQ+ networks in Defence adjusted their support during the pandemic? What support is there for LGBTQ+ personnel? What does LGBTQ+ stand for? Read to find out more.
What does LGBTQ+ include and why is it important in Defence?
The LGBTQ+ acronym is constantly evolving but its core initials are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer.
Having networks and resources for minority groups is important in any workplace. Being a member of the Armed Forces is a huge part of one’s life, especially when deployed away from home. Having an understanding workplace which supports all types of families, relationships and identities is essential.
21 years ago, the ban on Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual members of the Forces was lifted. Before this, the Special Investigative Branch (SIB) had the power to search civilian houses, open sealed letters and discharge people from the Armed Forces on the suspicion of same-sex relationships.
It was 22 years ago that policies allowed transgender personnel to transition, although they have never explicitly been banned, and since then many people have transitioned whilst serving. Remembering this history is important to the community, especially during LGBTQ+ History Month.
What has it been like during the pandemic for LGBTQ+ groups?
With Pride events cancelled and groups unable to meet in person, the LGBTQ+ community has suffered as much as any in 2020 from being separated from friends and support groups.
Surgeon Lieutenant Commander Mike Hill, Chair of the Royal Navy Compass LGBTQ+ Network, is passionate that mental health support and community building must be a high priority. Despite being immunosuppressed and shielding throughout the pandemic, he has reached out to make sure support for LGBTQ+ groups is still available. He says:
“Whilst we may be used to operating away from home, whether above or below the waves, isolation marks the pandemic apart from the camaraderie on operations.
That’s why, as a diversity network, we have been reaching out to our LGBT+ Service community; providing support through talking therapy, online social activities to address isolation and providing advice on maintaining mental and physical well-being.
I know that this has been a lifeline for myself whilst in isolation, and vital for others whether they have been working from home or deployed on operations, including supporting the national COVID-19 response.”
What online events have been held?
Defence held a Virtual Pride last summer, celebrating LGBTQ+ members of Defence as part of the wider Virtual World Pride. This included educational lectures, interactive events, socials, and choir and lip-sync performances. The annual Pride event held in major cities around the world is valuable for community building, networking, and empowering LGBTQ+ individuals. Having an online event has been a huge bonus to many isolated people.
For LGBTQ+ History Month, the networks have run an event called It’s A Sin which explores the historical lived experiences of Defence sector personnel. The Defence civil servant network, SHOUT, also organised a webinar with the Terrance Higgins Trust (a charity that campaigns about and provides services relating to HIV and sexual health) discussing LGBTQ+ presence in the Media.
Going forwards, they have high hopes for the year ahead, whether virtual or in person.
