During my first few weeks at Brit, I got involved with the Rainbow Collective, which at the time was called the LGBTQ+ and Trans Experiences employee resource group. Not long after becoming a member, I volunteered to help co-lead the group which has been a great experience and has meant that I’ve met a lot of new people. 

I used to think that my sexuality wasn’t an important part of my identity, and that I didn’t want it to “define” me.  But the more I learn about LBGTQ+ history, the more I count myself lucky that I grew up some time after LGBTQ+ rights started to become more widely recognised.  I now feel that I’m actually in quite a privileged position to be able to feel secure in my own sexual identity.

There’s been plenty to get involved with, but my personal highlight since joining the Rainbow Collective has been helping run an LGBTQ+ “back to basics” session for our Brit colleagues.  We were able to discuss some of the fundamental terms and concepts that are often used in conversations about LGBTQ+ identities — things like what the different letters of LGBTQ+ stand for, the differences between gender identity and sexual orientation, some significant events in LGBTQ+ history, and the essential role that allies play in getting rid of stigma and discrimination.  I think it was a great example of how Brit is encouraging conversations and learning around inclusion and diversity!