As June brings the vibrant celebrations of Pride Month, we are reminded of the importance of diversity, inclusion, and acceptance. For the LGBTQIA+ community, Pride is not just a celebration; it's a powerful statement of resilience, unity, and the ongoing struggle for equality.
Pride today honours the Stonewall Riots of June 1969, a key moment in LGBTQIA+ history that kickstarted the modern gay rights movement. The riots began after a police raid at the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in New York City. This led to a series of protests by the LGBTQIA+ community against ongoing police harassment and discrimination. These events spurred LGBTQIA+ activism, forming various advocacy groups and the first Pride marches in several U.S. cities the following year. Stonewall's impact also reached the UK, with the first UK Pride taking place two years later, on July 1st, 1972.
Since the first Pride march in the UK in 1972, the LGBTQIA+ community has made tremendous strides. Today, Pride events are celebrated nationwide, reflecting the community's vibrant diversity and resilience.
Reflecting on the LGBTQIA+ community's journey, it's crucial to remember the once negative sentiments towards homosexuality. Section 28, passed in 1988, banned the promotion of homosexuality by local authorities and in schools. This law silenced LGBTQIA+ discussions and encouraged exclusion. Although reversed in 2003, its legacy highlights the need for ongoing advocacy and education to prevent future discrimination.
It’s important to note that the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights is not just a Western phenomenon; many governments at the forefront of defending LGBTQIA+ rights are from the developing world. With increasing representation in media, politics, and business, this dynamic community continues pushing for equality and acceptance, fostering a more inclusive society.
BPP University is committed to fostering a campus culture that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. We believe every student, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should feel valued and supported. This commitment is reflected in various initiatives, social media campaigns, and resources available to our students.
One such initiative is the BPP Library Read with Pride campaign, which follows our annual Learn Proud Live Proud campaign for LGBTQIA+ History Month. Designed to reflect BPP's values of ‘Stronger Together,’ ‘Everybody Matters,’ and ‘Trust and Respect,’ this campaign ensures that all LGBTQIA+ students and allies feel represented, seen, and valued within the library space. Additionally, we will educate students through a social media campaign exploring Pride's origin and honouring trailblazers like Marsha P. Johnson, a pioneering LGBTQIA+ activist.
We will also be running a Pride Competition where students can share their favourite songs by queer artists for a chance to win a prize. Moreover, we're also thrilled to announce the launch of our brand new podcast - 'Speak Up!'. The first episode of which focusses on the topic of the LGBTQIA+ community! Hosted by our Student Voice Rep, Daniel Scrase, features an exclusive interview with Rebecca Grice and Jamie Bedson, who share insights on their experience within the LGBTQ+ community - click here to listen.
This podcast aims to provide a platform for open dialogue and to further educate and engage our community on significant LGBTQIA+ matters. If you would like to get involved in any way with the podcast in future, please email Represent@bpp.com for further details.
Don't forget to subscribe on Spotify and follow us on Instagram to stay updated with our latest episodes!