RPS is proud to support Pride

Every June, the world celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride Month and RPS will be supporting Pride and our LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning; the + is an inclusive symbol to mean ‘and others’ to include all identities) community loud and proud again this year, throughout June.  

Pride Month holds immense significance at a time when LGBTQ+ individuals and allies gather to celebrate, raise awareness, and advocate for equal rights. While great strides have been made in protecting and supporting LGBTQ+ people in the UK, over the last few decades in particular, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies continue to fight for equality and social acceptance.

Why we celebrate Pride

According to Stonewall’s LGBT in Britain Report (2018):

• More than a third of LGBT staff (35 per cent) have hidden that they are LGBT at work for fear of discrimination.
• One in five LGBT people have experienced a hate crime or incident because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity in the last 12 months.
• One in four black, Asian and minority ethnic LGBT people (24 per cent) accessing social services in the last year have been discriminated against because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity
• Two in five trans people have experienced a hate crime or incident because of their gender identity in the last 12 months.
• Four in five anti-LGBT hate crimes and incidents go unreported, with younger LGBT people particularly reluctant to go to the police.
• Half of LGBT people (52 per cent) experienced depression in the last year.

For these reasons and more, RPS is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment that embraces diversity, values the identities of our people, and understands the importance of empowering individuals from all communities.

The history of Pride

The history of Pride Month can be traced back to the early hours of June 28, 1969, when the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, was raided by the police. Tired of enduring ongoing harassment and discrimination, the LGBTQ+ community fought back, igniting a series of protests and demonstrations that lasted for days. The Stonewall Riots marked a turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, galvanizing individuals to demand visibility, acceptance, and legal protection.

The significance of Pride month

Pride month is an important time to show support and allyship for the LGBTQ+ community. Being an ally means actively advocating for and standing in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals.. Here are some ways you can demonstrate your allyship during Pride Month and beyond:

1. Educate yourself: Learn about the history, struggles, and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community. Understand the diverse experiences and challenges faced by different individuals within the community.
2. Listen and be open: Practice active listening and be willing to learn from the perspectives of LGBTQ+ individuals. Validate their experiences without judgment or assumption. Create a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ individuals to share their stories, experiences, and concerns.
3. Use inclusive language: Be mindful of the language you use and strive to be inclusive. Respect preferred pronouns and gender identities and avoid making assumptions about someone's sexual orientation or gender identity based on appearance. Respect the self-identification of individuals.
4. Amplify LGBTQ+ voices: Use your platform, whether it's social media, conversations with friends, or public speaking, to amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals. Share their stories, art, and achievements. Help LGBTQ+ individuals to be heard.
5. Challenge discrimination: Speak up when you witness discrimination, prejudice, or hate speech targeting LGBTQ+ individuals. Engage in respectful conversations to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions. Advocate for inclusive policies and practices in your workplace and community.
6. Be an ally year-round: Allyship should extend beyond Pride Month. Continue to support and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout the year. Stay informed about ongoing issues and challenges faced by the community.